ON THE ANALYSIS OF GEOPHYSICAL-DATA FOR AN UNKNOWN CONSTANT, EXEMPLIFIED BY THE PROBLEM OF THE O-O COLLISION CROSS-SECTION()

Geophysical data that are employed to determine some constant paramete r are often subjected to a least-squares method of analysis. Uncritica l use of this method has been found to be inappropriate. An alternativ e method, based on the analysis of the errors that must be associated with any chosen method of data reduction, is recommended in its place. The relevant principles are exemplified by the currently active probl em of the O+-O collision cross-section as determined from aeronomic me asurements. These principles lead to specific recommendations for futu re data analysis in this area. Copyright (C) 1996 Elsevier Science Ltd .