Arrangements and methods are provided for obtaining data associated with a
sample. For example, at least one first electro-magnetic radiation can be
provided to a sample and at least one second electro-magnetic radiation
can be provided to a reference (e.g., a non-reflective reference). A
frequency of such radiation(s) can repetitively vary over time with a
first characteristic period. In addition, a polarization state of the
first electro-magnetic radiation, the second electro-magnetic radiation,
a third electro-magnetic radiation (associated with the first radiation)
or a fourth electro-magnetic radiation (associated with the second
radiation) can repetitively vary over time with a second characteristic
period which is shorter than the first period. The data for imaging at
least one portion of the sample can be provided as a function of the
polarization state. In addition or alternatively, the third and fourth
electro-magnetic radiations can be combined so as to determine an axial
reflectance profile of at least one portion of the sample.