* Gravity's Pull: Gravity constantly pulls objects towards the Earth's center. When a ball is thrown upwards, gravity acts against its upward motion.
* Decreasing Upward Velocity: As the ball travels higher, gravity slows it down, decreasing its upward velocity.
* Zero Velocity at the Peak: Eventually, the ball's upward velocity reaches zero at its highest point.
* Downward Motion: After reaching the peak, gravity continues to act on the ball, causing it to accelerate downwards.
In short: The ball slows down while ascending because gravity is working against its initial upward motion.