Is this the pad for sanding or polishing? are they different? Do I need a different backing pad to use it as a polisher?

http://i17.ebayimg.com/03/i/04/1b/a4/54_1_b.JPG
http://i2.ebayimg.com/01/i/04/1d/9f/ce_1.JPG

That looks like a backing plate to use with adhesive backed sandpaper.

THe backing plates for polishing pads are covered with velcro hooks.

thanks