Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of central nervous system (CNS) active agents. Its structure supports the creation of chiral building blocks for drugs targeting depression, anxiety, and other neurological disorders. The trifluoromethyl group enhances metabolic stability and bioavailability, making it valuable in medicinal chemistry. Also employed in the preparation of liquid crystals and functional materials due to its unique polarity and stereochemistry.