Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the production of imidazole-based drugs with antifungal, antihypertensive, and anti-inflammatory properties. It serves as a building block in agrochemicals for developing fungicides and plant growth regulators. Also employed in the preparation of ionic liquids and catalysts due to its acidic character and ability to form stable salts. Its sulfonic acid group enhances water solubility, making it useful in aqueous reaction systems and in the development of water-soluble polymers and dyes.