Ion traps function by generating electric and magnetic fields that confine ions in a small region of space. There are several types of ion traps, including Paul traps (quadrupole traps) and Penning traps, each employing different principles to achieve ion confinement.
- Paul traps use oscillating electric fields to stabilize ions. - Penning traps employ a combination of static electric and magnetic fields.
These traps can isolate single ions or groups of ions, making them ideal for studying quantum phenomena and for applications in nanotechnology.
