Used in organic synthesis as an intermediate for pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals. Serves as a building block in the preparation of conjugated systems for materials science applications, including organic semiconductors and liquid crystals. Also employed in the development of UV-absorbing compounds for use in sunscreens and polymer stabilizers due to its ability to absorb ultraviolet light. Its α,β-unsaturated carbonyl structure makes it suitable for Michael addition reactions and other conjugate additions in medicinal chemistry.