Spontaneous generation of singularities in paraxial optical fields

In nonrelativistic quantum mechanics the spontaneous generation of singularities in smooth and finite wave functions, is a well understood phenomenon also occurring for free particles. We use the familiar analogy between the two-dimensional Schroedinger equation and the optical paraxial wave equatio...

Full description

Saved in:
Bibliographic Details
Published inarXiv.org
Main Author Aiello, Andrea
Format Paper Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published Ithaca Cornell University Library, arXiv.org 11.04.2016
Subjects
Physics - Optics
Physics - Quantum Physics
Quantum mechanics
Schrodinger equation
Singularities
Wave equations
Wave functions
Online AccessGet full text
ISSN2331-8422
DOI10.48550/arxiv.1512.01444

Cover

More Information
Summary:In nonrelativistic quantum mechanics the spontaneous generation of singularities in smooth and finite wave functions, is a well understood phenomenon also occurring for free particles. We use the familiar analogy between the two-dimensional Schroedinger equation and the optical paraxial wave equation to define a new class of square-integrable paraxial optical fields which develop a spatial singularity in the focal point of a weakly-focusing thin lens. These fields are characterized by a single real parameter whose value determines the nature of the singularity. This novel field enhancement mechanism may stimulate fruitful researches for diverse technological and scientific applications.
Bibliography:SourceType-Working Papers-1
ObjectType-Working Paper/Pre-Print-1
content type line 50
ISSN:2331-8422
DOI:10.48550/arxiv.1512.01444