Are There Any Cases of Non-Constant Particle Mass in Solid State Theory?

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The discussion centers on the concept of particle mass in solid state theory, specifically referencing Marius Grundmann's "The Physics of Semiconductors." It establishes that while particle mass is generally considered constant, the effective mass of quasi-particles, such as electrons and holes in semiconductors, can vary based on the band structure. This variation is quantified through the second derivative of the band dispersion, leading to the classification of these particles as quasi-electrons rather than real electrons, which maintain a constant mass.

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In the book "The Physics of Semiconductors" by Marius Grundmann, there is a note on one of the pages, saying:
Generally, \Psi'/m should be continuous, however, in the present example the mass is assumed constant throughout the structure.

I have never heard of a case where a particle would have a non-constant mass, is there any such case at all?
 
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Electrons and holes in semiconductors are quasi-particles. They have an "effective mass" which is given in terms of the second derivative of the band dispersion. This mass can vary if the band structure varies.
 
In that case it would be more like a quasi-electron, not a real electron, right? Because the electron itself still has a constant mass.
 
In Solid state theory, you take it usually for granted that the electrons you are talking about are quasi-electrons in reality.
 

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