We investigate the importance of gamma-ray correlations in nucleon-nucleus scattering. Coincidence observables can give information about the scattering amplitude that is not accessible in noncoincident (p,p’) experiments and can provide sensitive tests of different theoretical models. We have performed relativistic and nonrelativistic calculations with special emphasis on observables sensitive to composite spin-convection current amplitudes. We present calculations of coincidence cross sections as well as longitudinal and sideways analyzing powers using the $0^{+}$→$1^{+}$ excitation as an example. We have compared our results with coincidence cross section data for the first $1^{+}$, T=1 state in ${}_{}{}^{12}{}_{}{}^{}\mathrm{C}$. The experimental results seem to indicate a clear preference for the relativistic predictions.

• Received 30 August 1989

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevC.41.2277