Here's why:
* Distance: The further apart two objects are, the weaker the gravitational force between them. So, distance increases when gravitational force decreases.
* Potential Energy: When gravitational force decreases, an object's gravitational potential energy increases. Think of it like this: if you lift an object higher against gravity, it gains potential energy. As gravity weakens, it takes less effort to lift the object, resulting in a higher potential energy.
Important Note: The objects themselves don't physically get bigger. It's the space between them (distance) and their energy relative to each other that changes.