Phosphorus pentachloride is widely used as a chlorinating agent in organic synthesis. It plays a key role in converting alcohols into alkyl chlorides and carboxylic acids into acyl chlorides, which are essential intermediates in the production of pharmaceuticals, dyes, and other organic compounds. Additionally, it is employed in the manufacture of lithium hexafluorophosphate, a critical component in lithium-ion batteries. In the chemical industry, it serves as a catalyst or reagent in various reactions, including the synthesis of phosphorus oxychloride and other phosphorus-containing compounds. Its ability to introduce chlorine atoms into molecules makes it valuable in creating specialized chemicals for industrial and research applications.