Abstract
We consider how vectorial aspects (polarization) of light propagation can be implemented and their origin within a Feynman path integral approach. A key part of this scheme is in generalizing the standard optical path length integral from a scalar to a matrix quantity. Reparametrization invariance along the rays allows a covariant formulation where propagation can take place along a general curve. A general gradient index background is used to demonstrate the scheme. This affords a description of classical imaging optics when the polarization aspects may be varying rapidly and cannot be neglected.
© 2021 Optical Society of America
Full Article |
PDF Article
Data Availability
Data underlying the results presented in this paper are not publicly available at this time but may be obtained from the authors upon reasonable request.
Cited By
You do not have subscription access to this journal. Cited by links are available to subscribers only. You may subscribe either as an Optica member, or as an authorized user of your institution.
Contact your librarian or system administrator
or
Login to access Optica Member Subscription
Tables (1)
You do not have subscription access to this journal. Article tables are available to subscribers only. You may subscribe either as an Optica member, or as an authorized user of your institution.
Contact your librarian or system administrator
or
Login to access Optica Member Subscription
Equations (108)
You do not have subscription access to this journal. Equations are available to subscribers only. You may subscribe either as an Optica member, or as an authorized user of your institution.
Contact your librarian or system administrator
or
Login to access Optica Member Subscription
Add to BibSonomy