Used as an intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in the preparation of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. It serves as a building block in the formation of heterocyclic compounds due to its α,β-unsaturated carbonyl structure, which readily participates in Michael addition and cycloaddition reactions. Commonly employed in the synthesis of nitro-substituted pyrazoles and other nitrogen-containing rings with biological activity. Also utilized in research for developing fluorescent dyes and photoactive materials owing to its conjugated system and electron-withdrawing nitro group.