Schuster A., Nicholson J.W. An introduction to the theory of optics

London: Edward Arnold & CO. – 1924. – 431 p. There is at present no theory of Optics in the sense that the elastic solid theory was accepted fifty years ago. We have abandoned that theory, and learned that the undulations of light are electromagnetic waves differing only in linear dimensions from the disturbances which are generated by oscillating electric currents or moving magnets. But so long as the character of the displacements which constitute the waves remains undefined we cannot pretend to have established a theory of light. The present volume is divided into two parts; the first part includes those portions of the subject which may be treated without the help of the equations of dynamics, although a short discussion of the kinetics of wave motion is introduced at an early stage. The mathematical treatment has been kept as simple as possible, elementary methods only being used.Periodic motion
Kinematics and kinetics of wave motion
Preliminary discussion of the nature of light and its propagation
The principle of superposition
The diffraction of light
Measurement of wave-lengths
The theory of optical instruments
The propagation of light .in crystalline media
Interference of polarized light
Theories of light
Dispersion and absorption
Transmission of energy
Further discussion of the nature of light and its propagation
Emission spectra and the quantum theory
Dynamical theory of spectraPlates