Used as a chiral building block in organic synthesis, particularly in the production of pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals. It serves as a precursor for the synthesis of enantiomerically pure compounds, aiding in the development of drugs with specific stereochemical requirements. Its oxirane (epoxide) functionality makes it valuable in ring-opening reactions, which are crucial for creating complex molecular structures. Additionally, it is employed in the preparation of biologically active molecules, such as beta-blockers and other therapeutic agents, due to its ability to introduce stereocenters efficiently.