Linear algebraic theory of partial coherence: discrete fields and measures of partial coherence

Date
2003-08
Advisor
Instructor
Source Title
Proceedings of SPIE(International Society for Optical Engineering)
Print ISSN
0277-786X
Electronic ISSN
Publisher
SPIE
Volume
Issue
Pages
1073 - 1074
Language
English
Type
Conference Paper
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Abstract

We present a linear algebraic theory of partial coherence which allows precise mathematical definitions of concepts such as coherence and incoherence. This not only provides new perspectives and insights, but also allows us to employ the tools of linear algebra in applications. We define a scalar measure of the degree of partial coherence of an optical field which is zero for complete incoherence and unity for full coherence.

Course
Other identifiers
Book Title
Keywords
Data processing, Eigenvalues and eigenfunctions, Mathematical models, Matrix algebra, Numerical methods, Optical correlation, Optics, Discrete fields, Optical fields, Partial coherence, Coherent light
Citation
Published Version (Please cite this version)