Used in pharmaceuticals as a buffering agent to maintain pH stability in drug formulations. Commonly employed in diagnostic medicine for bowel preparation prior to colonoscopy, where it helps cleanse the colon by drawing water into the intestines. Utilized in laboratory settings as a component of buffer solutions for biochemical assays and protein crystallization. Also serves as a food additive to control acidity and improve texture in processed foods such as cheeses and meats. In agriculture, it functions as a nutrient source in fertilizers and plant growth media. Additionally, used in cleaning products and detergents due to its ability to chelate metal ions and reduce staining.