One of the fundamental properties of electromagnetic waves is polarization and the measurement of polarized light; polarimetry plays a major role in science and technology. Therefore, it is essential for both students and researchers to understand this phenomenon, its mathematical representations, and the transformations of polarization states by material media.
This well written, well-illustrated book is comprehensive and can be used for both graduate courses in polarization and as a research reference text. The theoretical concepts are illustrated with experimental examples from various areas such as material science and biology. The text is supplemented by an extensive listing of references. I would say that this book belongs in the bookshelf of every opticist.
Review by Vengu Lakshminarayanan, University of Waterloo, Canada
The opinions expressed in the book review section are those of the reviewer and do not necessarily reflect those of OPN or OSA.