Hamiltonian Optics Basics: Explained for Beginners

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    Hamilton Optics
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Hamiltonian optics applies Hamilton's principle to geometric optics, illustrating that light rays follow paths that minimize action, similar to moving particles. This concept emphasizes the analogy between light propagation and classical mechanics. The discussion highlights the simplicity of Hamiltonian optics, indicating that it doesn't rely on gross approximations. Participants express a desire for clarity on the fundamentals, confirming that the core idea revolves around this minimization principle. Understanding this principle is essential for grasping the basics of Hamiltonian optics.
UchihaClan13
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Alright I was browsing through feynman's lectures VOL.1
When I came across Hamiltonian Optics
I am not quite able to understand it in its entirety
Could someone explain the basics of hamiltonian optics to me
Help would be much appreciated !
 
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Application of Hamilton's principle to (geometric) optics shows the close analogy between paths of light rays and paths of moving particles; they both minimize the action. That's really about it.
 
You mean there really isn't anything else
No gross approximations and suchlike??
 

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