Used primarily in specialized photographic processes, this compound acts as a light-sensitive agent in certain types of black-and-white photographic papers and films. It contributes to image formation through controlled reduction of silver ions to metallic silver upon exposure to light. Due to its sensitivity and instability, it is generally prepared in situ rather than stored. It also finds limited use in analytical chemistry as a reagent for detecting or quantifying specific ions in solution. Additionally, it has been explored in some antimicrobial coatings, where the slow release of silver ions provides biocidal properties, though this application is less common due to the availability of more stable silver compounds.