Observations on the formulation of paraxial and Gaussian optics

John E. Greivenkamp

doi:10.1117/12.2074836

17 December 2014 Observations on the formulation of paraxial and Gaussian optics

John E. Greivenkamp

Proceedings Volume 9293, International Optical Design Conference 2014; 929320 (2014) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2074836
Event: International Optical Design Conference, 2014, Kohala Coast, Hawaii, United States

Abstract

In several of the standard derivations of first-order optics, the actual approximations used are unclear or overstated. Some derivations are also incomplete. Several of the fundamental derivations of paraxial and Gaussian optics have been reformulated to provide a clearer explanation and better understanding of the key concepts of basic image formation for our students. The paraxial refraction raytrace equation, the power of a general Gaussian system and the relationship between the numerical aperture and the F-number are examined. The paraxial refraction equation is shown to be a bridge between paraxial optics and Gaussian optics that defines the power of an optical system.

Citation Download Citation

John E. Greivenkamp "Observations on the formulation of paraxial and Gaussian optics", Proc. SPIE 9293, International Optical Design Conference 2014, 929320 (17 December 2014); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2074836

ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE

INSTITUTIONAL
Select your institution to access the SPIE Digital Library.

SELECT YOUR INSTITUTION

PERSONAL
Sign in with your SPIE account to access your personal subscriptions or to use specific features such as save to my library, sign up for alerts, save searches, etc.

PERSONAL SIGN IN

No SPIE Account? Create one

PURCHASE THIS CONTENT

SUBSCRIBE TO DIGITAL LIBRARY

50 downloads per 1-year subscription

Members: $195

Non-members: $335 ADD TO CART

25 downloads per 1 - year subscription

Members: $145

Non-members: $250 ADD TO CART

PURCHASE SINGLE ARTICLE

Includes PDF, HTML & Video, when available