ENSEMBLE INTERPRETATION OF THE EPR-BELL CORRELATIONS

The EPR-Bell correlations between the spins of a pair of particles ori ginally in a singlet state are discussed both on the basis of the math ematical formalism of quantum mechanics and the ensemble interpretatio n. It is shown that the correlations predicted by the mathematical for malism are in agreement with those expected on the basis of the ensemb le interpretation, if the electrons are treated as distinguishable par ticles after they separate and undergo observation. In this case, the correlations are only in partial agreement with a gedanken experiment of Mermin on the subject. It is pointed out, however, that agreement w ith Mermin's conclusions is possible if one treats the electrons as in distinguishable even when they are subjected to observation after sepa ration, though there is no obvious theoretical justification for doing so.