Used primarily in organic synthesis, it serves as a key intermediate in the production of various pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. It is particularly valuable in the synthesis of benzodiazepines, a class of psychoactive drugs. Additionally, it is employed in the manufacture of UV absorbers and photoinitiators for coatings and inks. Its reactivity allows for the introduction of the benzophenone moiety into more complex molecules, making it a versatile building block in chemical research and industrial applications.