Multiple ionization of diatomic molecules in collisions with 50–300-keV hydrogen and helium ions

Measurements of relative multiple ionization cross sections have been performed for 50-300-keV H{sup +}, D{sup +}, and He{sup +} impact on N{sub 2}, O{sub 2}, CO, and NO molecules. Fragment ions with total charges up to Q=q{sub 1}+q{sub 2}=5 have been detected in coincidence using a position- and time-sensitive detector. Dependence of the cross section on the molecular orientation with respect to the ion beam is observed for all targets. The experimental data are compared with theoretical calculations based on the statistical energy deposition model.