Polarization changes in vector Gaussian-Schell-model beams propagating through a thin lens

Based on Wolf's general tensorial theory of coherence, in which the vector nature of electromagnetic fields is considered, the closed-form propagation equation of vector Gaussian-Schell-model (GSM) beams passing through a paraxial optical ABCD system is derived, which shows the general applicable advantage, and is used to study polarization changes of GSM beams in passage through a thin lens. It is found that polarization changes are dependent on the propagation distance, focal length of the lens, beam and coherence parameters and bandwidth of the source spectrum in general. A comparison with the previous results is also made.