Used primarily as an intermediate in the synthesis of organophosphate pesticides, particularly insecticides such as methamidophos. It plays a key role in agricultural chemistry due to its ability to inhibit acetylcholinesterase in pests, leading to effective pest control. Its reactivity allows for the construction of more complex phosphate esters used in crop protection. Due to its toxicity and potential environmental impact, handling requires strict safety controls and it is typically not used directly in final formulations.