Used as an intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in the preparation of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. Its structure contains both electron-donating (methoxy) and electron-withdrawing (nitro) groups, making it valuable in studying electronic effects in aromatic systems. It also serves as a building block in the synthesis of dyes and functional materials due to its conjugated carbonyl system. Additionally, it can be reduced to form amino derivatives used in the development of active ingredients in crop protection agents.