Analysis of data on low energy πN → ππN reaction I. Total cross sections

Abstract This is the first of a series of papers on a consistent model-independent analysis of the complete experimental information on the reaction π N → ππ N at pion momenta up to 500 MeV/ c . The paper summarizes the theoretical approach and details of the computational procedure. The complete database on total cross sections in 5 ππ N-channels is given together with a critical discussion of their model-independent analysis.