Used primarily as an intermediate in organic synthesis, this compound serves in the preparation of complex fragrance molecules and specialty ketones. Its sterically hindered ketone group and cyclopentyl moiety make it valuable in constructing branched aliphatic structures found in perfumery additives. It is also employed in the development of pharmaceuticals where a stable, lipophilic backbone is required for active ingredient design. Due to its structural features, it can participate in selective reduction, enolization, and Grignard reactions to form tertiary alcohols or extended carbonyl derivatives.