Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the production of beta-blockers, which are medications that help manage heart conditions and high blood pressure. It is also employed in the development of chiral compounds, where its stereochemistry plays a critical role in creating specific drug enantiomers. Additionally, it serves as a building block in organic synthesis for creating complex molecules in research and industrial applications. Its properties make it valuable in the preparation of surfactants and emulsifiers used in various chemical formulations.