A ball tossed vertically upward rises, reaches its highest point, and then falls back to its starting point. During this time the acceleration of the ball is always
A)in the direction of motion.
B)opposite its velocity.
C)directed upward.
D)directed downward.
E)none of the above

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The acceleration of the ball is always directed downward, which is the direction of the force of gravity acting on the ball. As the ball rises, gravity slows it down until it comes to a stop at its highest point. Then, gravity accelerates the ball downwards, causing it to fall back to its starting point. At all times during this motion, the acceleration of the ball is directed downward.

A Ball Tossed Vertically Upward Rises, Reaches Its Highest Point