Forward-backward asymmetry in e- + e+ → q + q-bar → π,K,D,..., + X

The forward-backward asymmetry A/sub M/ due to weak-electromagnetic interference effects in the inclusive process e- + e+ → M + X, where M is a pseudoscalar meson, is calculated in terms of the axial-vector weak neutral-current couplings b/sub q/ of the quarks composing M, their electric charges Q/sub q/, and the ratio D (x) of their (q → M) fragmentation probabilities. Thus, if b/sub q/ and Q/sub q/ are considered known, (i) a measurement of A/sub M/ effectively determines D (x), and (ii) for mesons composed of a light quark and a heavy quark a theoretical argument indicates that A/sub M/ is independent of D (x) so that the result of a measurement of A/sub M/ is immediately predictable