To calculate the time it takes for a vertically launched object to reach its apex, the final velocity at the highest point is zero. Using the equation v(final) = Vo + a(t), where Vo is the initial velocity (29.4 m/s) and acceleration (a) is -9.8 m/s², the equation becomes 0 m/s = 29.4 m/s - 9.8t. Rearranging gives -29.4 m/s = -9.8t, leading to t = 3 seconds to reach the apex. The discussion confirms that the object returns to the same speed when coming down, but the time to reach the highest point is correctly calculated as 3 seconds.