Multicenter character in single-electron emission from H₂ molecules by ion impact

Single ionization cross sections for heavy-ion impact on H₂ are calculated by applying the continuum-distorted-wave–eikonal-initial-state model. We have used a representation of the bound-state initial wave function which takes into account the molecular character of the target. To describe the final continuum state we have used the two-effective-center approximation, previously employed with success to study electron capture from H₂ by ion impact. Interference effects are also analyzed and the dependence of the oscillation frequency with the projectile velocity and ejection angle is presented. The importance of adequately describing the target as a molecule is emphasized.