Used primarily as a specialty solvent and intermediate in organic synthesis. Its structure makes it suitable for alkylation reactions and the production of fine chemicals, including pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. Due to its aromatic character and branched alkyl chain, it serves in research settings for studying reaction kinetics and steric effects. Also finds use in the formulation of certain high-performance fuels and as a component in some industrial cleaning agents where a less volatile, stable hydrocarbon solvent is required.