Dependence of the degree of paraxiality on field correlations

A linearly polarized optical field can be obtained by filtering a stochastic field through an ideal linear polarizer. The produced field possesses a given degree of paraxiality that, as proved in the present Letter, can be affected by the correlations of the original stochastic field. An example with Gaussian beams is discussed in detail.Imaging Science and TechnologyApplied Science