Used as a chiral derivatizing agent in organic synthesis, particularly in the resolution and analysis of enantiomers. Its ester functionality allows it to react selectively with chiral alcohols or amines, enabling the separation of racemic mixtures. Commonly employed in pharmaceutical intermediates synthesis where stereochemistry control is critical. Also utilized in asymmetric synthesis to introduce or preserve chirality due to its stable R-configuration, making it valuable in the development of enantiopure drugs. Its benzoate group enhances UV detectability, useful in analytical methods like HPLC for monitoring reaction progress or purity.