Final answer:
The correct answer is option D. 20 m/s2.
Step-by-step explanation:
The acceleration due to gravity can be calculated using the time taken for the ball to reach its maximum height and its initial velocity. When the ball reaches its maximum height, its vertical velocity becomes zero. The formula to calculate acceleration is:
a = (v - u) / t
where a is the acceleration, v is the final velocity, u is the initial velocity, and t is the time taken.
Using the information given:
- Initial velocity, u = 10 m/s
- Final velocity at maximum height, v = 0 m/s
- Time taken to reach maximum height, t = 500 milliseconds = 0.5 seconds
Substitute the values into the formula:
a = (0 - 10 m/s) / 0.5 s = -20 m/s²
The negative sign indicates that the acceleration is in the opposite direction of the ball's initial motion, which is downward due to gravity. Therefore, the acceleration due to gravity is 20 m/s² (Option D).