Potassium osmate(VI) dihydrate is widely used as a catalyst in organic synthesis, particularly in the dihydroxylation of alkenes to produce vicinal diols. This reaction is highly valuable in the pharmaceutical and chemical industries for creating intermediates in drug synthesis and complex organic molecules. It is also employed in asymmetric synthesis, where it helps in the production of chiral compounds with high enantioselectivity. Additionally, it finds application in the preparation of fine chemicals and in research laboratories for studying oxidation reactions. Its effectiveness and selectivity make it a crucial reagent in advanced chemical transformations.