A method for analyzing data obtained from at least one sample in a separation system (10, 50, 60) that has a capability for separating components of a sample containing more than one component as a function of at least two different variables including obtaining data representative of the at least one sample from the system, the data being expressed as a function of the two variables; forming a data stack (70, 74, 78, 82, 84) having successive levels, each level containing successive data representative of the at least one sample; forming a data array (R) representative of a compilation of all of the data in the data stack; and separating the data array into a series of matrixes. A chemical analysis system that operates in accordance with the method, and a medium having computer readable program code for causing the system to perform the method.