Used primarily as a reactive intermediate in organic synthesis, this compound participates in acylation reactions to introduce the but-3-enoyl group into various substrates. Its vinyl functionality allows for further transformations such as cross-coupling reactions or polymerization, making it valuable in the preparation of specialty monomers, pharmaceuticals, and fine chemicals. It is also employed in the synthesis of esters and amides where the presence of a terminal double bond enables post-functionalization via addition or cyclization reactions. Due to its high reactivity, it is handled under controlled conditions, typically in anhydrous environments.