Diffraction of light by an opaque sphere. 1: Description and properties of the diffraction pattern

Area of Science:

• Optics and Photonics
• Wave Phenomena

Background:

• Understanding light propagation and diffraction is crucial in optics.
• The Fresnel region describes diffraction patterns at intermediate distances from an obstacle.

Purpose of the Study:

• To mathematically describe the diffraction pattern of light passing a circular obstacle.
• To validate the mathematical model experimentally.

Main Methods:

• Utilized scalar diffraction theory to derive a mathematical model.
• Employed Lommel functions to represent the diffraction pattern.
• Conducted experimental validation of the derived model.

Main Results:

• The mathematical description accurately predicts diffraction patterns within and beyond the shadow region.
• An isomorphic relation was established between spherical and plane wave illumination.
• Key characteristics like central spot size, ring dimensions, and intensity profiles were quantified.

Conclusions:

• Scalar diffraction theory and Lommel functions provide an accurate model for light diffraction around a circular obstacle.
• The model is applicable to various illumination conditions and propagation distances.
• Experimental results confirm the theoretical predictions across different regions.