Explanation of the structure of the spin correlation parameter A(nn) in p-p elastic scattering at multi-GeV energies

Evidence is presented herein that the model previously advanced by us to ex plain the behavior of the elastic proton-proton polarization and cross sect ion in the multi-GeV region can provide a direct explanation for the intric ate and striking spin-spin correlation effects as well. The success of the simple concept that multiple, independent quark-quark scatters are responsi ble for the main features of the differential cross section. polarization a nd spin correlation calls for a renewed assessment of whether in fact the e ntire behavior of protons as they elastically scatter from each other in th is energy region can be explained within this logical framework. (C) 2001 E lsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.