2000/06/19 by Kirk T. McDonald, McDonald, Kirk T.
Physics and Astronomy · #FOS: Physical sciences #Optics (physics.optics) #physics.optics
paper · pdf · doi:10.48550/arxiv.physics/0006046
arxiv created 2000/06/19 · arxiv updated 2009/12/01
Scalar Bessel beams are derived both via the wave equation and via diffraction theory. While such beams have a group velocity that exceeds the speed of light, this is a manifestation of the "scissors paradox" of special relativty. The signal velocity of a modulated Bessel beam is less than the speed of light. Forms of Bessel beams that satisfy Maxwell's equations are also given.