Analysis of a coupled-channel continuum approach for spectra of mass-17 compound systems

By performing studies of the structure of the spectra of mass-17 nuclei we discuss specific aspects of the Multi-Channel Algebraic Scattering (MCAS) method. We devote particular attention to the comparison with results from large-scale shell-model calculations, the treatment of Pauli-forbidden or -hindered states, and to the collective/coupled nature of the states obtained in our model. By using different shell-model spaces as platform to assess the MCAS method, we question statements raised recently about the validity of this method on the basis of a small-scale shell-model approach.