Final answer:
The instantaneous velocity of a body falling under the influence of gravity after 5 seconds is b) 49 m/s.
Step-by-step explanation:
The instantaneous velocity of a body falling under the influence of gravity can be calculated using the equation:
velocity = acceleration x time
In this case, the acceleration due to gravity is approximately 9.8 m/s². So, at the 5th second after release, the velocity of the body would be:
velocity = 9.8 m/s² x 5 s = 49 m/s
Therefore, the correct answer is 49 m/s (Option B).