e⁺e⁻ → ss̄ at √s = 250 GeV in future linear colliders

The forward–backward asymmetry ( A_FB A FB ) in light-quark production is a sensitive probe of the electroweak sector and potential flavor-dependent BSM effects. We present a study of e⁺e⁻ → ss̄ e + e - → s s ¯ at √s=250 s = 250 GeV at future linear colliders, using full International Large Detector (ILD) simulation and reconstruction tools for the International Linear Collider (ILC), and the Linear Facility at CERN (LCF@CERN). We assess the impact of particle identification on charge reconstruction and A_FB A FB extraction, considering software improvements using Comprehensive PID (CPID) for optimal $$dE/dx$$ d E / d x usage, as well as hardware scenarios including cluster counting ( $$dN/dx$$ d N / d x ) and ideal Time Projection Chamber (TPC) performance. Improvements in statistical discrimination are evaluated with corrections for charge misidentification and acceptance applied. Results indicate that precise A_FB^ss̄ A FB s s ¯ measurements are feasible and that advanced PID is key to maximizing sensitivity to electroweak and new-physics effects.