Used primarily as an intermediate in organic synthesis, this compound serves in the preparation of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. Its ketone functionality allows for versatile chemical transformations, such as reductions, condensations, and Grignard reactions, making it valuable in building complex molecules. It is also employed in the synthesis of fragrances and flavoring agents due to its stable aliphatic ketone structure. In research laboratories, it acts as a model compound for studying reaction mechanisms involving sterically hindered ketones.