The statement that best demonstrates that gravity is acting on the ball at all times is:
The ball slows down and begins to fall when the force of gravity overcomes the upward force of throwing the ball.
Here's why this explanation is the clearest demonstration of gravity's continuous influence:
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Constant Force: Gravity is a constant force acting on the ball, regardless of its motion. As soon as the ball is thrown, gravity starts to act on it, pulling it downward.
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Effect of Gravity: When you throw the ball into the air, it initially moves upward due to the force applied by your throw. However, as the ball rises, gravity continually acts on it, causing it to decelerate. Eventually, this force of gravity overcomes the upward force, bringing the ball to a stop at its highest point.
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Subsequent Descent: After reaching its peak, gravity ensures that the ball begins to descend back to the ground. This clear transition from upward motion to downward motion highlights the relentless effect of gravity.
The other statements contain some inaccuracies or misinterpretations of gravity's action on the ball. For example, the claim that "the ball has no weight until it is thrown" is incorrect; the ball has weight due to gravity acting on it at all times, regardless of whether it is in motion or at rest.