In the study, researchers used computer simulations to understand how the top layer of coal and surrounding rock move and break in thin coal mines. They found that the top coal moves the most, especially at the front of the mining area. The top coal and rock above the mining area are squeezed together vertically, while the top layer of coal starts to separate at the top of the mining area. The pressure on the hydraulic supports in the mining area mostly comes from the top coal and rock shifting. The supports designed for normal coal mining might not be suitable for this type of mining approach in thinner coal seams.