This chemical is primarily used in organic synthesis as a building block for the preparation of more complex molecules. It serves as a protected form of an amino acid, where the tert-butoxycarbonyl (Boc) group shields the amino functionality during reactions, allowing selective modification of the carboxylic acid group. It is commonly employed in peptide synthesis, where the Boc group can later be removed under mild acidic conditions to reveal the free amine. Additionally, it finds application in the development of surfactants, polymers, and bioactive compounds due to its amphiphilic nature, which combines both hydrophobic and hydrophilic properties. Its long carbon chain also makes it useful in the study of lipid-based systems and drug delivery mechanisms.