Used as an intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in the preparation of nitro-substituted compounds for pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. Its nitrophenyl group enables further transformation via reduction to amino derivatives, which are valuable building blocks in heterocyclic chemistry. Commonly employed in the development of dyes, UV stabilizers, and functional materials due to its aromatic nitro functionality and ester reactivity. Also applied in research settings for photochemical studies, where the nitro group acts as a chromophore or photoremovable protecting group.