Modern Optics Simplified

Description

This text reduces the complexity of the coverage of optics to allow students with elementary calculus to learn the principles of optics and modern Fourier theory of diffraction and imaging. Each chapter offers simple examples from real engineering problems and includes current topics in imaging such as optical coherence tomography and fiber optics.

• Reduces the complexity of optics for students across the sciences and engineering
• Students can easily connect information to their field of interest, thanks to the myriad examples of applications dependent on optics
• Discusses current topics in imaging such as optical coherence tomography, holography, fiber optics, and the Abbe theory of microscopy
• Use of simple one dimensional descriptions and graphical solutions to make visualization of the problems easy
• Highlights more challenging topics for optional reading
• Includes exercises and solutions manual available to lecturers

About the Author(s)

Robert D. Guenther, Adjunct Professor of Physics, Duke University, NC, USA

Robert D. Guenther received his undergraduate degree from Baylor University and his graduate degrees in Physics from the University of Missouri. He has had research experience in condensed matter, high energy lasers, and optical physics. For nine years he was active in research management as a senior executive in the US Army, and was responsible for physics research sponsored by the Army. After retiring from the government, Dr. Guenther held the position of Interim Director of the Free Electron Laser Laboratory and Executive Director at Fitzpatrick Center for Photonics and Communication Systems at Duke University. He has 30 years' experience teaching undergraduate optics. He retired from teaching and worked in two start-up companies developing products related to imaging and spectroscopy.

Table of Contents

1:Waves
2:Electromagnetic Theory
3:Reflection and Refraction
4:Interference and Coherence
5:Polarizers
6:Geometrical Optics
7:Aberrations
8:Guided Waves
9:Fraunhofer Diffraction
10:Fresnel Diffraction
11: Imaging

Reviews

"An impressive contribution to the literature on image science...The book is an authoritative presentation by the author of the modern field of optics that is moving ahead dramatically due to the growth of virtually all fields of technology. Guenther writes with clarity and precision from his unique perspective This book is well suited to a variety of scholars, including first year graduate students and advanced undergraduates." - Nicholas George, The Institute of Optics, University of Rochester,

"A must read for anyone wishing to obtain a solid foundation for applying the science of optics. Starting from the wave aspect of light, Guenther develops a fresh new approach to describing modern optics. The book bridges the gap between classical optics and contemporary applications of light." - Eric Mazur, John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University,

"Guenther has succeeded to provide a much needed and well-balanced modern optics book suitable for students and experienced researchers alike. Across 11 beautifully-illustrated chapters, key fundamentals from geometrical and wave optics to polarization, waveguides and imaging are all covered in appropriate depth. Each chapter ends with a selection of problems that probes the knowledge gained by the reader. The book is enriched by historical chapter introductions, and highlighted examples from modern science including optical tweezers, optical coherence tomography, stellar interferometry, photonic crystal fibers, aberrations and human vision. A clear new favourite for any serious optics scholar and student alike. Brilliant work!" - Brian Vohnsen, School of Physics, University College Dublin,

"Modern optics has expanded into many beautiful topics. Bob Gunther has masterfully succeeded in presenting a concise, clear introduction to this fascinating field. Students and scholars worldwide will enjoy reading and consulting this succinct, well-informed, and wonderfully well-structured book." - Jorge Ojeda-Castañeda, , Engineering School, University of Guanajuato,