Used primarily as a strong, non-nucleophilic base in organic synthesis, it facilitates the deprotonation of weakly acidic compounds, enabling the formation of carbanions. This reactivity is crucial in the preparation of enolates, which are intermediates in various carbon-carbon bond-forming reactions, such as aldol condensations. Additionally, it serves as a lithiating agent in the synthesis of organolithium compounds, which are valuable in the production of pharmaceuticals and complex organic molecules. Its compatibility with a wide range of solvents and its ability to operate at low temperatures make it a versatile reagent in fine chemical manufacturing and research laboratories.