Abstract

Paraxial Gaussian-beam-like solutions of the scalar wave equation, often used to model laser beams, do not satisfy Maxwell's equations. Paraxial-beam-like solutions that satisfy Maxwell's equations are constructed from the solutions of the scalar wave equation. Polarization properties of these Maxwell-Gaussian beams in free space are discussed. It is found that a Maxwell-Gaussian beam linearly polarized in the x direction and propagating in the z direction has a weak cross polarization component in the y direction in addition to a longitudinal component in the direction of propagation. These properties are demonstrated by using light beams from an Ar-ion laser.

© 1992 Optical Society of America