Mode correlation and coherent-mode decomposition of laser beams

Theory of the coherent-mode decomposition of laser beams is proposed. The new model for the flat-topped beams proposed by Li recently is taken as an example. The analytical expressions for the M^2-factor and mode coherence coefficients of flat-topped beams have been derived in the rectangular coordinate system, by means of which the mode correlation, mode structure, and coherent-mode decomposition of flat-topped beams can be analysed.