This paper focuses on a series of theoretical and experimental studies of the physical optics, such as the Goos-Hänchen shift, the FTIR phenomena, the negative refraction index, the superluminal experiments of THz rays, and the measurement of photon rest mass. It indicates that the evanescent waves phenomena are becoming more important in physical optics research recently. For example, superluminal propagation is a result of the evanescent waves, i. e. the evanescent fields. The possibility of a finite photon rest mass remains one of the most important issues in physical optics, as it has a bearing on a series of fundamental questions. A discussion on the present situation in this area is given. Finally, the history and advances of optical frequency standard and optical frequency measurements are given in the article.