Probability, Statistical Optics, and Data Testing

A basic skill in probability is practically demanded nowadays in many bran- ches of optics, especially in image science. On the other hand, there is no text presently available that develops probability, and its companion fields stochastic processes and statistics, from the optical perspective. [Short of a book, a chapter was recently written for this purpose; see B. R. Frieden (ed. ): The Computer in Optical Research, Topics in Applied Physics, Vol. 41 (Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg, New York 1980) Chap. 3] Most standard texts either use illustrative examples and problems from electrical engineering or from the life sciences. The present book is meant to remedy this situation, by teaching probability with the specific needs of the optical researcher in mind. Virtually all the illustrative examples and applications of the theory are from image science and other fields of optics. One might say that photons have replaced electrons in nearly all considera- tions here. We hope, in this manner, to make the learning of probability a pleasant and absorbing experience for optical workers. Some of the remaining applications are from information theory, a con- cept which complements image science in particular. As will be seen, there are numerous tie-ins between the two concepts. Students will be adequately prepared for the material in this book if they have had a course in calculus, and know the basics of matrix manipulation.