The vertical pole on a sailboat is called the mast, but at the bottom of the sail is horizontal pole called a boom. On the Tall Ships, the horizontal pole AT THE TOP of the sail is called the yardarm.
Mast
Mast (vertical, leading edge of sail), Boom (horizontal,bottom of sail), and a spinnaker pole if you use a spinnaker which is a sail type
the pole that holds up the sail is called the mast
a pole is used on symmetrical boats, or a boat that has the spinnaker, or kite, out in front of it. An A-Symmetrical boat puts the spinnaker to the side. A-Symmetrical boats use a bowsprit to hold the sail out in front of the boat, but Symmetricals use a pole. it clips onto the mast of the boat, and the other ends holds the sail.
Mast
The purpose of a sail pole on a sailboat is to provide additional support for the sail, helping to optimize its shape and catch more wind. This contributes to the overall functionality of the vessel by increasing its speed and maneuverability, allowing it to sail more efficiently in different wind conditions.
It is called the mast
a pole on a sailboat is a mast
You are describing the mast.
mast
The wind is what causes a sailboat to sail.
Masts, or see: http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_are_ship_poles_calledfor a more indepth answer.