Used as a derivatization reagent in analytical chemistry, particularly in the detection and quantification of aldehydes and ketones. Its primary application lies in enhancing the detectability of carbonyl compounds in gas chromatography (GC) and liquid chromatography (LC) by forming stable oxime derivatives that are more amenable to analysis. It is also employed in the development of sensitive assays for biological and environmental samples where trace-level carbonyl compounds need to be monitored. The presence of nitro groups aids in detection via UV or mass spectrometry due to their strong electron-withdrawing properties and characteristic fragmentation patterns.