Used as an intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in the preparation of sulfonamide-based pharmaceuticals. It serves as a building block for bioactive molecules, including antimicrobial and antiviral agents. Its nitro group allows for further functionalization through reduction to an amine, enabling the formation of more complex sulfonamide derivatives. Also employed in the development of dyes and fluorescent probes due to its electron-withdrawing properties and stability. In research, it acts as a reagent for modifying amines in peptide chemistry through sulfonylation reactions.