title: Matrix method for beam propagation using Gaussian Hermite polynomials.
abstract: Using the properties of Hermite polynomials, a simple first-order matrix differential equation is developed which describes the propagation of an arbitrary field through an inhomogeneous medium and which can be solved exactly. This method handles both spatially varying refractive index and linear absorption and diffraction. As examples, it is applied to an etalon and a graded index optical fiber.
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: McDuff