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 $SU(3)_c\times SU(2)_L\times U(1)_Y$, supplemented by the symmetry ${ \cal R}\times { \cal U}(1)$, is presented, where ${ \cal R}$ (${ \cal U}(1)$) 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.
Categories: hep-ph