2-Bromopropanal is a reactive alpha-halo aldehyde used primarily as an intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly for pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and fine chemicals. It serves as a building block for introducing the 1-formyl ethyl or related substituted groups into larger molecules via nucleophilic substitution at the alpha position. Commonly employed in reactions such as the Darzens condensation to form epoxy esters, and in the synthesis of heterocycles, beta-hydroxy aldehydes, and other functionalized compounds. Its bromine allows for facile displacement in cross-coupling reactions and other transformations in medicinal chemistry. Due to its high reactivity, it is often generated in situ, but pre-formed material is used in specialized applications including certain dyes and polymer precursors.