Used as a chiral building block in organic synthesis, particularly in the preparation of pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals. Its acetonide-protected diol structure makes it valuable for stereoselective reactions, where the hydroxyl group can be selectively modified while the acetonide group acts as a protecting group. Commonly employed in the synthesis of bioactive molecules, including antiviral and antitumor agents, due to its stability and ease of functionalization. Also utilized in fragrance and flavor synthesis because of its ability to serve as a precursor to complex alcohols and esters.