Influence of different mining locations on deformation characteristics of overlying strata on gently anti-dip...

High-steep gently inclined mining slopes, prevalent globally, often suffer significant deformation, leading to landslides due to numerous goafs. This research investigates the critical role of goaf location in controlling deformation, failure mechanisms, and disaster evolution, vital for safe mining practices. Through field investigations and model generalization in Guizhou, a physical model test method was used to study three positions of goafs: under the shoulder and foot of the slope, under the slope shoulder, and within the slope. Findings highlight the stronger influence of the goaf's mutual position with the slope shoulder on slope and overburden deformation and failure compared to the slope toe. Deformation and failure modes evolve from collapse toppling to collapse slip and collapse settlement as the goaf shifts from the near slope surface to inside of the slope. Statistical analysis of fracture distribution in the goaf's overlying strata reveals damage increase with larger goafs, following a Gaussian distribution, with concentrated damage in the middle. The study identifies the maximum damage area, influenced by the horizontal distance between the goaf center and slope shoulder. These insights advance understanding of overburden rock deformation in gently inclined high-steep mining slopes.