Computer simulation of Fresnel diffraction from double rectangular apertures in one and two dimensions using the iterative Fresnel integrals method

We have applied the iterative Fresnel integrals method for the computation and simulation of the Fresnel diffraction images created by double apertures in one and two dimensions. Necessary formalism has been derived and the relevant computation algorithms have been developed for this application. The computer simulated images show an interesting combination of Fresnel diffraction images with mutual interference effects between the light diffracted from the two apertures. Transition to the expected Fraunhofer diffraction pattern for double apertures or slits is also observed by the simulations.

► We used the iterative Fresnel integral method to simulate Fresnel diffraction from double apertures.
► Necessary formalism was developed for this application.
► Effects of changing slit widths and aperture separations on the diffraction patterns was observed.
► Agreement with the exact Fraunhofer formula in the far-field was obtained.
► Fresnel diffraction from infinite slits and two-dimensional double slits was also simulated successfully.