The fundamental eigenfrequency is simple in the two-dimensional sloshing problem

Abstract

The two-dimensional sloshing problem is considered; it describes the transversal free oscillations of water in an open, infinitely long canal of uniform cross-section. It is proved that the fundamental eigenfrequency is simple, whereas the corresponding velocity potential has only one nodal line connecting the free surface and the bottom; its harmonic conjugate (stream function) does not change sign under the proper choice of the additive constant.