Method of Image Green's Function in Grating Theory: Reflection Extinction Theorem

Abstract

In the theory of diffraction gratings, the conventional integral method is considered as a powerful tool of numerical analysis. But it fails to work at a critical angle of incidence, because a periodic Green's function (integral kernel) diverges. This problem was resolved by the image integral equation in a previous paper. Newly introducing the reflection extinction theorem, this paper derives the image extinction theorem and the image integral equation. Then, it is concluded that the image integral equation is made up of two physical processes: the image surface radiates a reflected plane wave, whereas the periodic surface radiates the diffracted wave.