Used primarily as an intermediate in the synthesis of other chlorinated compounds, particularly in the production of pesticides and flame retardants. It serves as a building block in organic reactions where multiple chlorine atoms are needed for further substitution or elimination processes. Due to its reactivity, it is also employed in the manufacture of specialty chemicals, including plasticizers and cross-linking agents. Its symmetrical structure makes it valuable in research for studying stereochemistry and reaction mechanisms in halogenated hydrocarbons.