Used primarily as a synthetic intermediate in organic chemistry, especially in the preparation of complex natural products and pharmaceuticals. Its conjugated enone structure makes it valuable in Michael addition reactions and other carbon-carbon bond-forming processes. Commonly employed in the synthesis of terpenoids and steroid-like frameworks due to its ability to mimic cyclohexenone motifs found in biologically active molecules. Also utilized in fragrance chemistry, serving as a building block for aroma compounds in perfumery.