Polarized Light and Optical Systems

Series: Optical Sciences and Applications of Light

Authors: Russell A. Chipman, Wai-Sze Tiffany Lam, Garam Young

Publisher: CRC Press

Edition: 1st Edition

Publication Date: August 9, 2018

ISBN-10: 149870056X

ISBN-13: 978-1498700566

Polarized Light and Optical Systems provides a comprehensive presentation of polarization optics designed for undergraduate and graduate students, as well as a practical reference for optical engineers and designers. Developed and refined through fifteen years of curriculum at the University of Arizona’s College of Optical Sciences, this text makes classroom teaching relevant to the contemporary challenges of optical engineering.

The central theme of the book is a unifying treatment of polarization elements as optical elements and optical elements as polarization elements. This approach is essential for those involved in building polarimeters, designing displays, and developing polarization-critical optical systems. The content bridges the gap between fundamental theory and the applied needs of the optical industry.

Key Features and Content:

• Detailed presentation of Jones calculus and Mueller calculus, including extensive tables and derivations of matrices for various polarization elements and effects.
• Classroom-appropriate coverage of the polarization properties of birefringent materials, thin films, and stress birefringence.
• In-depth analysis of crystal polarizers, liquid crystals, and gratings.
• A foundational resource for understanding the interaction of light with complex optical systems.