Generalized M2 factor of a partially coherent beam propagating through a circular hard-edged aperture

Appl Opt. 2003 Jul 20;42(21):4280-4. doi: 10.1364/ao.42.004280.

Abstract

The second-order intensity moments and the beam-propagation M2 factor of partially coherent beams that propagate through a circular-symmetry hard-edged aperture are in the cylindrical coordinate system. AJo-correlated Schell-model beam with a Gaussian intensity distribution is an example. The analytical expression for the generalized M2 factor is derived. The numerical calculation results are analyzed.