On some \(L_1\)-finite type Euclidean surfaces (Q361252)

Finite type hypersurfaces are those where the position vector is a finite sum of eigenfunctions of the Laplace operator. The notion ``\(L_1\)-finite type'' refers to the generalized Laplace operator arising from the variation of the second mean curvature. As main result of the paper under review, \(L_1\)-finite type surfaces or special types in 3-space are characterized. More precisely the authors consider the following classes: 1. surfaces of revolution of constant mean curvature, 2. surfaces of revolution whose generating curve is of finite type, 3. spiral surfaces, 4. tubes around curves. It is found that these are only spheres, planes, circular cylinders or flat spiral surfaces. In particular the standard torus is not of \(L_1\)-finite type.