Multipole decomposition of doubly differential cross sections - a model independent analysis

We propose a new, model independent method which can be used to analyse high quality data from inelastic scattering or charge exchange reactions. Such data contain resonances observed as bumps superimposed on a smooth continuum generally assumed to the background. The major problem in these studies is the decomposition of data into bumps originating from nuclear excitations and the underlying continuum. (author)