ABCD matrix of the human lens gradient-index profile: applicability of the calculation methods.

The applicability of different approximate methods proposed to determine the paraxial properties of the gradient-index (GRIN) distribution resembling that of the human lens, by means of the system ABCD matrix, is tested. Thus, the parabolic-ray-path approximation has been extended to provide the ABCD matrix of a slab lens comprised of a rotationally GRIN medium. The results show that this method has good numerical stability, and it is also the easiest one in determining the Gaussian constants of the human lens GRIN profile.