Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. Its reactive chloromethyl group allows for easy functionalization, making it valuable in creating more complex organic molecules. Commonly employed in the preparation of ketone-containing compounds that serve as building blocks in drug development. Also utilized in the production of specialty chemicals where aromatic ketones are required. Its structure supports further derivatization through alkylation, amination, or cross-coupling reactions, enhancing its utility in research and industrial applications.