Optical Diffraction Effects Produced by Amplitude and Phase Changes in the Wave Front

Abstract

The diffraction which occurs when certain areas of the wave front undergo changes of amplitude or phase or both, relative to the rest of the front, may be readily treated by a method which is virtually a generalization of Babinet's principle. Applications to both Fraunhofer and Fresnel diffraction are given and include phase gratings, striations, haloes, phase contrast techniques, zone plates, and holograms.