Ammonium formate is widely used as a buffering agent in liquid chromatography, particularly in mass spectrometry, to enhance the separation and detection of analytes. It serves as a mobile phase additive, improving ionization efficiency and providing better peak shapes. In organic synthesis, it acts as a reducing agent in catalytic hydrogenation reactions, facilitating the conversion of nitro compounds to amines. Additionally, it is employed in the preparation of formic acid and as a source of formate ions in various chemical processes. Its role in preserving biological samples, such as in the stabilization of RNA during extraction, is also notable.