At its apex, the ball's velocity is null. Applying the equation of motion: \[v = u + at\] where: - \( v = 0 \, \text{m/s} \) denotes the velocity at the highest point, - \( u = 20 \, \text{m/s} \) is the initial velocity, - \( a = -g = -9.8 \, \text{m/s}^2 \) represents the downward acceleration due to gravity. Rearranging the formula to determine time \( t \): \[0 = 20 - 9.8 \times t\] \[t = \frac{20}{9.8} = 2.04 \, \text{s}\] Consequently, the time required for the ball to ascend to its peak is \( 2.04 \, \text{s} \).