Double photoionization of hydrocarbons and aromatic molecules

This article reviews the recent progress in the field of double photoionization of hydrocarbons and aromatic molecules using synchrotron radiation. First I will describe the importance of carbon-based molecules, which are all around us and are literally part of our life. They exhibit intriguing properties some of which can be probed via double photoionization, i.e., the simultaneous emission of two electrons. Furthermore, I will discuss the different mechanisms that can lead to a doubly charged organic molecule and will highlight those findings by comparing them with the results for atoms and other (simple) molecules. Finally, I will give an outlook on future directions on this subject. (topical review)