Representation of the continuum by Gamow functions in the description of giant multipole resonances

In order to calculate the exact width of giant multipole resonances it is necessary to take into account the escape width describing the probability of nucleon emission, i.e. the coupling of the giant resonance to the continuum states. A new method is proposed which is simple, fast, and effective in determining escape widths. The resonant continuum states are represented by Gamow function which are complex energy eigenfunctions of the Schroedinger equation. Special regulation methods and new definition of scalar product are introduced for treating the non-normalizable eigenfunctions. An example is presented: results of calculation for the nucleus 86-208 are tabulated. The accuracy of the method is estimated. (D.G.)