Full-wave computed tomography. Part 2: Resolution limits

Invoking our recently developed exact inverse theory, we derive limits on the resolution of individual spatial frequency components of a reconstructed image, set by imperfections of measurement. These are minimum limits, only achievable when one knows how to invert data without adulterating the underlying theory with strong assumptions (sweeping approximations are implicit in most practical inversion algorithms). Resolution limits on imaging with conservative fields are also derived, but (recognising the physical constraints on the formation of useful images) for situations simple enough that data inversion is easily effected without introducing approximations.