Ion traps are devices that use electric or magnetic fields to capture and hold charged particles, known as ions. These traps allow scientists to study the properties of ions in a controlled environment, making them valuable tools in fields like quantum computing and atomic physics. There are different types of ion traps, including Paul traps and Penning traps, each utilizing specific configurations of fields to confine ions. By manipulating these ions, researchers can explore fundamental questions about matter and energy, as well as develop new technologies for information processing and precision measurements.