Element |
Matrix |
Remarks |
Propagation in free space or in a medium of constant refractive index |
![](ABCD_Matrix_tut.parts/freespace.png) |
d = distance |
Refaction at a flat interface |
![](ABCD_Matrix_tut.parts/flatinterface.png) |
n1 = initial refractive index n2 = final refractive index |
Refaction at a curved interface |
![](ABCD_Matrix_tut.parts/curvedinterface.png) |
R = radius of curvature, R > for convex (centre of curvature after interface)
n1 = initial refractive index n2 = final refractive index |
Reflection from a flat mirror |
![](ABCD_Matrix_tut.parts/flatmirror.png) |
Identity matrix |
Reflection from a curved mirror |
![](ABCD_Matrix_tut.parts/curvedmirror.png) |
R = radius of curvature, R > 0 for convex |
Thin lens |
![](ABCD_Matrix_tut.parts/thinlens.png) |
f = focal length of lens where f > 0 for convex/positive (converging) lens. Valid if and only if the focal length is much greater than the thickness of the lens |