Dissociative ionization of H2+ by fast-electron impact: Use of a two-center continuum wave function

The differential cross section of the dissociative ionization of H2+ by fast (2-keV) electron impact is determined theoretically using a two-center continuum wave function for the slow (50-eV) ejected electron satisfying the correct boundary conditions. The variation of the sevenfold differential cross section with the scattering angle for fixed molecular alignment shows diffraction patterns, which differ from those obtained by the multicenter atomic model of Messiah. The effect of the molecular alignment is studied for small, intermediate, and large scattering angles. This reveals preferential directions for the internuclear axis. copyright 1996 The American Physical Society