Mixing of vector and axial correlators at finite volume: Implications for lattice computations

Correlators of vector and axial isovector currents are considered in a finite box of large size L, Lm(sub pi) greater than 1. Pion induced finite size effects in this case are shown to result in mixing of the two correlators. It is demonstrated that this may reduce the mass of a(sub 1) meson obtained in lattice simulations as compared to the true one. The mixing discussed may, at high temperature, result in degeneracy of screening masses. Other possible effects of this mixing are discussed.