On Surface Wave Excitation by of Finite-Aperture Light Beams

Abstract

A rigorous formulation of a theoretical method for investigating reflection of a plane electromagnetic wave from a flat-layered structure in the Kretschmann configuration is presented. Excitation of a surface wave is investigated taking into account diffraction effects caused by the finite aperture of the incident wave. Attention here is paid to application of the developed theory for investigating the Goos–Hänchen effect. Interference of surface plasmon waves upon their excitation on the surface of a metal film is analyzed. Possible applications of the obtained results are discussed.