Used as an intermediate in the synthesis of agrochemicals, particularly sulfonylurea herbicides, and pharmaceuticals. It plays a key role in developing efficient, low-dose herbicides that control broadleaf weeds in crops such as corn and soybeans by enabling the formation of active ingredients that inhibit the enzyme acetolactate synthase (ALS), essential for amino acid synthesis in plants, leading to weed growth cessation and death. Also used in the development of fungicides. Its structure, featuring reactive functional groups, allows for easy modification to target specific plant enzymes or microbial processes. Commonly employed in research to design new bioactive molecules with reduced environmental impact.