New Class of SO(10) Models for Flavor

TL;DR

This paper introduces a novel class of SO(10) grand unified models that explain fermion masses and mixings without using the traditional Higgs 10_H, employing vector-like fermions and various Higgs representations.

Contribution

The paper proposes a new SO(10) flavor model framework that avoids the fundamental 10_H Higgs, using vector-like fermions and multiple Higgs representations, fitting fermion data with few parameters.

Findings

Excellent fit to fermion masses and mixings

Predictions for proton decay branching ratios

Compatibility with type-I and type-II seesaw mechanisms

Abstract

We present a new class of unified models based on SO(10) symmetry which provides insights into the masses and mixings of quarks and leptons, including the neutrinos. The key feature of our proposal is the absence of Higgs boson 10_H belonging to the fundamental representation that is normally employed. Flavor mixing is induced via vector-like fermions in the 16 + 16-bar representation. A variety of scenarios, both supersymmetric and otherwise, are analyzed involving a 126_H along with either a 45_H or a 210_H of Higgs boson employed for symmetry breaking. It is shown that this framework, with only a limited number of parameters, provides an excellent fit to the full fermion spectrum, utilizing either type-I or type-II seesaw mechanism. These flavor models can be potentially tested and distinguished in their predictions for proton decay branching ratios, which are analyzed.