Used primarily as an intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in the preparation of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. Its α,β-unsaturated ester structure with a chloro substituent makes it a valuable Michael acceptor in conjugate addition reactions. It is also employed in the construction of complex molecules requiring a branched alkyl chain with functional handle for further modification. The presence of both the double bond and ester group allows for diverse transformations, including hydrogenation, hydrolysis, and cyclization reactions, enabling its use in synthesizing bioactive compounds and specialty chemicals.