Optimal polarized observables for model-independent new-physics search at e+ e- colliders

For the processes e(+)e(-) -> mu(+)mu(-), tau(+)tau(-) b (b) over bar and c (c) over bar at a future e(+)e(-) collider with root s = 0.5 TeV, we examine the sensitivity of the helicity cross sections to four-fermion contact interactions. if longitudinal polarization of the electron beam were available, two polarized integrated cross sections would offer the opportunity to separate the helicity cross sections and, in this way, to derive model-independent bounds on the relevant parameters. The measurement of these polarized cross sections with optimal kinematical cuts could significantly increase the sensitivity of helicity cross sections to contact interaction parameters and could give crucial information on the chiral structure of such new interactions. (C) 2000 Published by Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.