The discovery of the Fractional Fourier Transform and its role in optics and data management provides an elegant mathematical framework within which to discuss diffraction and other fundamental aspects of optical systems. This book explains how the fractional Fourier transform has allowed the generalization of the Fourier transform and the notion of the frequency transform. It will serve as the standard reference on Fourier transforms for many years to come. Copyright (C) Muze Inc. 2005. For personal use only. All rights reserved.