Used as a phase-transfer catalyst in organic synthesis, facilitating reactions between reagents in different phases by improving solubility and reactivity. Commonly applied in alkylation, oxidation, and nucleophilic substitution reactions. Also serves as a building block for ionic liquids, which are employed as green solvents in catalysis and electrochemistry due to their low volatility and high thermal stability. Its zwitterionic structure makes it useful in studies of molecular recognition and supramolecular chemistry.