What is mixed pixel classification?

Mixed pixel classification is the process by which we try to infer the proportions of the pure components that are present in the part of the scene within the field of view of the sensor that gave rise to the mixed pixel. In order to perform mixed pixel classification, we have  to use spectral images (not just panchromatic or single bands of spectral images). That is why the process is otherwise known as "spectral unmixing".

How can we perform mixed pixel classification?

There are two methods for mixed pixel classification: 

  • The linear approach
  • The non-linear approach