2024/12/22 by Jianming Wen, Wen, Jianming
Engineering · Physics and Astronomy · #Classical Physics (physics.class-ph) #FOS: Physical sciences #Mechanical and Optical Resonators #Optics (physics.optics) #Photonic and Optical Devices #Quantum Physics (quant-ph) #Random lasers and scattering media
paper · pdf · doi:10.48550/arxiv.2412.17161
openalex publication_date 2024/12/22 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/29
The classic Young's double-slit experiment exhibits first-order interference, producing alternating bright and dark fringes modulated by the diffraction effect of the slits. In contrast, here we demonstrate that its time-reversed configuration produces an ideal, deterministic second-order 'ghost' interference pattern devoid of diffraction and first-order effect, with the size dependent on the dimensions of the `effectively extended light source.' Furthermore, the new system enables a range of effects and phenomena not available in traditional double-slit interference studies, including the formation of programmed and digitized interference fringes and the coincidence of the pattern plane and the source plane. Despite the absence of first-order interference, our proposed experiment does not rely on nonclassical correlations or quantum entanglement. The elimination of diffraction through time-reversal symmetry holds promise for advancing superresolution optical imaging and sensing techniques beyond existing capabilities.