R-parity violation:: origin of μ-term and other consequences

We propose a new mechanism in which the generation of the supersymmetric mu-term as well charged lepton masses is closely tied to R-parity violation involving heavy vector-like families. A realistic example based on SU(3)(c) x SU(2)(L) x U(1)(Y), supplemented by the symmetry R x U(1), is presented, where R (ZA(1)) denotes a continuous R (flavor) symmetry. In addition to the mu-term, the charged fermion mass hierarchies and mixings, as well as baryon number conservation are also nicely explained. Bilinear R-parity violating coupling involving the first generation gives rise to neutrino mass relevant for the small angle nu(e)-nu(s) MSW oscillations, where nu(s) denotes a sterile state. The atmospheric neutrino puzzle is resolved via maximal mixing angle nu(mu)-nu(tau) oscillations. The decay of the lightest neutralino (LSP) and leptogenesis are briefly discussed. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.