Used primarily as a reactive intermediate in organic synthesis, this compound is valued for its strained bicyclic structure combined with an acid chloride functional group. It readily participates in acylation reactions, making it useful for introducing the bicyclic moiety into alcohols, amines, and other nucleophiles. Its application is prominent in the development of specialty polymers and pharmaceuticals where rigid, three-dimensional frameworks are desired to influence molecular conformation or bioavailability. The double bond within the norbornene ring allows for further functionalization via reactions such as epoxidation, dihydroxylation, or cross-metathesis, enabling modular construction of complex molecules. It is also employed in polymer chemistry, particularly in ring-opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP), where it acts as a monomer to produce functionalized polynorbornenes with tailored properties for advanced materials.