Used as an intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in the preparation of pharmaceuticals and biologically active compounds. Its structure contains both hydroxyl and benzyl-protected ether functional groups, making it valuable for stepwise synthesis where selective reactivity is required. Commonly employed in the development of prostaglandin analogs and other cyclopentane-based therapeutic agents. The benzyl group can be easily removed under mild conditions, allowing for further functionalization in multi-step reactions. Also utilized in the synthesis of chiral building blocks for drug discovery and natural product synthesis.