Used primarily in organic synthesis as a versatile intermediate for constructing complex molecules. It serves as a key building block in the preparation of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). The bromomethyl group allows for further functionalization through nucleophilic substitution reactions, while the nitro group can be reduced to an amine for additional modifications. It is also employed in the synthesis of agrochemicals and dyes, where its reactive sites enable the creation of diverse chemical structures. Additionally, it finds use in research laboratories for studying reaction mechanisms and developing new synthetic methodologies.