The boom is a horizontal beam attached to the mast at the base of a mainsail or staysail. The boom keeps the sail taut and controls its angle in relation to the wind, which influences the power and direction of the boat.
This spar is designed to be strong yet lightweight, to withstand wind forces while minimizing the weight added to the boat. It is often equipped with devices such as sails and sheets to adjust the tension of the sail and adjust its shape according to sailing conditions.
The mechanical forces exerted on the boom are mainly in bending; this is why the boom is often thicker in its center to be more rigid.