An artificial satellite orbits Earth in a circular path. If its orbital radius is increased, its orbital velocity: MCQ with Answer and Explanation

Orbital velocity v = √(GM/r), where r is orbital radius from Earth's center. Thus v ∝ 1/√r. If r increases, v decreases. This follows from equating gravitational force to centripetal force: GMm/r² = mv²/r ⇒ v = √(GM/r). Higher orbits have slower speeds but longer periods. Memory aid: 'Higher orbit, slower speed' – counterintuitive but fundamental. This relationship is crucial for satellite motion questions in competitive exams. Always distinguish orbital velocity from escape velocity (which is √2 times orbital velocity at same radius).