To determine when the ball has the highest kinetic energy, we need to understand the relationship between kinetic energy, speed, and potential energy.
The kinetic energy \( KE \) of an object is given by the formula:
\[ KE = \frac{1}{2} mv^2 \]
where \( m \) is the mass of the object and \( v \) is its speed. Since the mass of the ball remains constant as it falls, we only need to consider its speed \( v \).
As the ball falls, it accelerates due to gravity, meaning its speed increases over time. Therefore, the kinetic energy of the ball will also increase as its speed increases, until the ball hits the ground.
Since the height decreases as the ball falls, the ball's potential energy is converted into kinetic energy. Therefore, the point at which the ball has the highest kinetic energy will be just before it reaches the ground, as that is when its speed will be at its maximum.
Given the options provided, if we consider that time progresses and the ball continues to fall, the highest kinetic energy will occur just before the ball hits the ground.
If you have the values for speed at the stated times in the table, the time where the speed is at its maximum will correspond to the highest kinetic energy. Without specific values but following the falling motion, it is most likely to occur after 2.5 seconds if you assume it continues to accelerate until just before impact.
So, unless specified otherwise based on table values, the ball will have the highest kinetic energy after 2.5 seconds.