In a clear, coherent, paragraph-length answer, explain why the speed of the apple half way between the release and the maximum height is not half the initial speed. Include a qualitative justification for the speed being greater or less than half the initial speed. You may use no equations to justify your conclusion

the speed of the apple half way between the release and the maximum height is not half the initial speed due to the acceleration due to gravity numerically equal to 9.81 m/s2. An acceleration in the direction of motion of a body will cause its velocity to increase, thus, this acceleration due to gravity increases the velocity of the apple so that it will be at its maximum speed before hitting the ground.

The value of this acceleration implies that there is an increase of 9.8 m/s in its speed for every one seconds of fall. This means that at 1 sec when it starts to fall, the speed will be 9.8 m/s. By two seconds it becomes 19.62 m/s. It is clear to see that the velocity halfway will be more than its initial velocity.

come closer and become far apart and become steam/gas