Theoretical study of multiple ionization processes on collisions between ions and molecules

In the present work we calculate multiple ionization cross sections, as a function of the orientation of the molecular axis, for impact of highly charged ions on N₂ and O₂ molecules. We use di®erent approaches to obtain the single ionization probabilities that are necessary to compute these quantities into the Independent Electron Model. The in°uence of the molecular orientation on di®erential cross section is analized. An adequate description of existing data is obtained. Total cross sections for CO targets are also calculated. (author)