ABSTRACT
In this chapter we address the situation where light is incident upon a spatially limiting aperture. We present mathematical models for the following scalar and vector diffraction theories:
Rayleigh-Sommerfeld scalar diffraction
Fresnel-Kirchhoff scalar diffraction
Hertz vector diffraction theory (HVDT)
Kirchhoff vector diffraction theory (KVDT)
A thorough mathematical model using surface integrals is presented for each of these diffraction theories, as well as a discussion of the limitations of each and guidelines for when the reader should use which diffraction model. For the special case where the point of interest is along the optical axis, we present a simple analytical model for both HVDT and KVDT. The power transmission function of light passing through an aperture is also investigated.
