O-rings are sealing devices that prevent the escape of fluids or vapors by seating into depressions when pressure is applied. There are two main types of O-rings: boss O-rings, which are static and don't move, and gland O-rings, which are dynamic and move. Boss O-rings for aircraft fittings follow a standard dash numbering system where the size corresponds to the fitting, such as a -2 fitting using a -902 O-ring. It is important to carefully inspect O-rings before installing to check for defects.