Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the production of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and other bioactive molecules. Its structure allows for further functionalization, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry for developing compounds with central nervous system activity. Also employed in the preparation of liquid crystal materials due to its rigid aromatic framework and favorable electronic properties. Commonly utilized in organic synthesis for constructing complex molecules through transformations at the aldehyde group.