Question

An earth satellite is moved from one stable circular orbit to a farther stable circular orbit. Which one of the following quantities increases:

• A. Linear orbital speed
• B. Gravitational force
• C. Centripetal acceleration
• D. Gravitational potential energy

Answer 1

The correct option is D Gravitational potential energy

$v=\frac{-GMm}{r}$

As $r$ increase, the value $\frac{-GMm}{r}$ decrease.But $v$ will increase because it become less negative.