Used primarily as an intermediate in organic synthesis, this compound serves in the preparation of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. Its reactivity allows for the introduction of the butyrate ester group and facilitates carbon-chain elongation through nucleophilic substitution or coupling reactions. It is also employed in the synthesis of flavor and fragrance compounds due to its ester functionality. In research laboratories, it acts as a building block for the formation of more complex molecules, particularly in the development of active ingredients requiring chiral centers, as the molecule can participate in stereoselective transformations.