Analysing the Question:
We know that equilibrium is the state of a body when it has equal and opposite forces being applied on it
In this case, a net downward force of 496N is being applied and a net upward force of (106 + 106 + 142 + x) N
Finding the missing force:
Since we have to achieve equilibrium, the net upward forces have to be equal to the net downward forces
So, (106 + 106 + 142 + x) = 496
354 + x = 496
x = 496 - 354
x = 142 N
Therefore, the missing force is 142 N