Fraunhofer diffraction and Fourier transform

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the relationship between Fourier transforms and Fraunhofer diffraction patterns produced by apertures. Participants seek a physical understanding of this relationship, emphasizing the need for clarity beyond mathematical derivations. One suggested resource is Goodman's "Introduction to Fourier Optics," which provides a clearer explanation of the concepts involved. The conversation highlights the desire to connect mathematical principles to physical phenomena, similar to how the Curl operator relates to magnetic fields. Overall, the thread underscores the challenge of grasping the physical implications of mathematical models in optics.
TheDestroyer
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a Fourier transform of an aperature results the pattern of the fraunhofer diffraction fringes at infinity of light passing that aperature.

How can we understand that point physically? I tried much to think about it! but no use.

Everyone, Please give your thought about this, so I can have many views about this.

Thanks :)
 
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I'm not sure what you mean by a 'physical' understanding; the result you mention is due to mathematically modeling the process of diffraction.

Goodman's book "Introduction to Fourier Optics" has a clear derivation of the result in chapter 4 or 5.
 
I have Hecht book, It explains the thing mathematically only, And I mean by physical understanding, the relation between the nature and the mathematical Fourier transform, For example you can relate the Curl operator with nature by saying a wire containing an electric current produces a rotating magnetic field.
 
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