Why does the gravitational potential decrease (become less negative) as altitude increases?
As altitude increases, r (distance from Earth’s center) increases, reducing the magnitude of the negative term −GMmr, making V less negative. As per NCERT, applying relevant law/formula with correct units and sign convention leads to Distance from the center increases. This satisfies dimensional consistency and physical conditions given, so option B is scientifically correct.
Ref: Halliday & Resnick, Fundamentals of Physics, 11th ed., Chapter 13: Gravitation.