Abstract: The gas flow in multi-layer goafs is complex, and the patterns of gas migration remain unclear.Once spontaneous combustion of residual coal in the goaf occurs, it will seriously impact the safe production of mining enterprises.Taking the multi-layer goaf of Gongwusu Coal Mine, Wuhai Energy Co.,Ltd.in Inner Mongolia as an example, this study employs a research method combining theoretical analysis and numerical simulation to analyze the dynamic changes and migration patterns of the gas flow field in the multi-layer goaf.Based on this analysis, the spontaneous combustion “three zones” within the multi-layer goaf are delineated.The results indicate that the porosity on the intake airway side is relatively high, and there is a significant airflow, maintaining oxygen concentration at a relatively high level.The volume of residual coal near the stopping line is substantial and loose, leading to a higher oxygen concentration in this area.A high-concentration zone of carbon dioxide appears on the intake airway side and gradually decreases towards the return airway side and the interior of the goaf.The methane concentration gradually increases from the intake airway side towards the interior of the goaf, showing a fan-shaped distribution.According to the simulation results, the spontaneous combustion “three zones” of the multi-layer goaf are delineated based on oxygen concentration indicators, revealing that the overlying 020901 goaf poses a greater risk of spontaneous combustion.