This compound is primarily used in biological and plant science research, particularly in studies on plant hormones and growth regulation. It exhibits properties similar to auxin, promoting cell elongation in plants at low concentrations but inducing abnormal growth and death at higher levels. It serves as a starting material or model compound in the development of selective herbicides targeting broadleaf weeds in crops and economic plants. Additionally, it is employed as a reference substance in laboratories to investigate absorption, translocation within plants, and the mechanisms of hormone-mimicking agents. Its derivatives have been explored in the synthesis of other agrochemicals and as intermediates in organic reactions for chlorinated aromatic compounds. Due to its stability and chlorinated structure, it is also utilized in research on the environmental degradation of persistent organic pollutants.