Correlations in separated quantum systems: A consistent history analysis of the EPR problem

Abstract

The familiar problem of two separated, noninteracting spin‐ 1/2 particles in a state of zero total spin is analyzed using the consistent history interpretation of quantum mechanics and shown to behave in many respects like a classical system of two noninteracting objects whose individual properties are unknown but strongly correlated with each other. There is no action at a distance between the particles and a measurement on one has no effect whatsoever on the other. However, the result of a measurement of a spin component of one of the particles can be used to infer (correctly) its value prior to the measurement, and also the corresponding spin component of the other particle at all times prior to when that particle interacts with something else. In these respects the quantum system behaves like its classical counterpart. On the other hand, the paradoxical (nonclassical) aspects of the quantum situation seem to be precisely those already present in the quantum theory of a single particle.