Answer:
The unknown force will be 18.116 lb.
Explanation:
Given that,
Three forces act on a flange as shown in figure.
The net force acting on the flange is a minimum.

We need to calculate the unknown force
Using formula of net force

Put the value into the formula


The magnitude of net force,




On differentiating w.r.to F




Negative sign shows the direction of force which is downward.
Hence, The unknown force will be 18.116 lb.
Force = mass * acceleration
F = 15 *8 = 120 Newton
You would use distance an time formula to mathmaticly solve