As the satellite gets closer to Earth, the satellite cools. As the satellite approaches Earth, the satellite rotates faster. The mass of the satellite increases as it nears Earth. The distance between Earth and the satellite decreases.
I gave my students this multiple choice question: As a satellite falls toward Earth, the gravitational force between the satellite and Earth increases. Which statement best explains why there is an increase in gravitational force?

Only one answer is correct among these 4 choices:
- As the satellite gets closer to Earth, the satellite cools.
- As the satellite approaches Earth, the satellite rotates faster.
- The mass of the satellite increases as it nears Earth.
- The distance between Earth and the satellite decreases.

Could you tell me which one is correct?

The distance between Earth and the satellite decreases.