Relays are electromagnetic switches that use a small current to generate a magnetic field, pulling switch contacts together or apart to open and close circuits. They are used to interface control circuits with load circuits, multiply signals, separate DC and AC power, and link information. Relays come in single pole and double pole configurations, with normally open and normally closed contacts that switch state when the coil is energized. Relays allow control of circuits with high voltages or currents using low-power input signals.