This compound is primarily used in organic synthesis as a reagent for the identification and characterization of alcohols. When reacted with alcohols, it forms crystalline derivatives that have distinct melting points, allowing for the precise identification of the alcohol in question. This application is particularly useful in analytical chemistry and research laboratories where the determination of specific alcohol compounds is necessary. Additionally, it can be employed in the study of reaction mechanisms involving esterification, providing insights into the kinetics and pathways of such chemical processes. Its role in these areas underscores its importance in both qualitative and quantitative chemical analysis.