The velocity of the ball thrown upward at 16 ft per second is 16 ft/s upwards.

Here's why:

* Velocity includes both speed and direction.

* The ball is thrown upwards, so that's its direction.

* The speed is given as 16 ft per second.

Important Note: The velocity of the ball will change over time due to gravity. It will slow down as it goes up and speed up as it falls back down.