Used as a reducing agent in chemical synthesis, particularly in the production of pharmaceuticals and dyes. Employed in electroless plating to deposit metals like copper and silver on non-conductive surfaces. Acts as a mordant in textile printing and dyeing to help fix colors onto fabrics. Found in silvering mirrors, where it sensitizes glass surfaces before silver deposition. Utilized in the manufacturing of catalysts for organic reactions. Also applied in wastewater treatment to reduce hexavalent chromium to trivalent chromium for easier removal. In the food industry, it serves as an antioxidant to preserve vitamin C and stabilize natural colors.