Abstract
The paraxial theory of spherical refracting surfaces, spherical lenses, and slabs with one birefringent medium is investigated analytically: using walk-off effects in the paraxial domain, a number of relations between objects and images are deduced, along with cardinal elements, in the case where the optic axis is parallel to the optical axis. This method naturally shows that in some cases first-order astigmatism appears. An argument based on the wavefront (and phase) transformation shows that any spherical birefringent thin lens is stigmatic in the paraxial domain, because the first-order astigmatisms due to the two surfaces of such a lens compensate each other. This is a priori not the case with thick birefringent lenses -- but two such cases are detailed.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
