Used as an intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. It participates in the preparation of sulfone-containing compounds due to the reactivity of the sulfone group, which can stabilize adjacent carbanions and facilitate carbon-carbon bond formation. Commonly employed in the synthesis of bioactive molecules, including anti-inflammatory agents and enzyme inhibitors. Its carboxylic acid functionality allows for easy derivatization into esters, amides, or salts, enhancing its utility in drug design and development. Also finds use in materials science for constructing functionalized polymers or specialty chemicals requiring polar, stable linkages.