Used primarily as an intermediate in organic synthesis, especially in the preparation of dyes, pharmaceuticals, and agrochemicals. It reacts selectively with nucleophiles such as amines and alcohols, making it valuable for introducing the 2,4-dinitrobenzoyl group in derivatization reactions. Commonly employed in analytical chemistry to modify and detect amino acids and other amine-containing compounds due to the strong chromophoric properties of the dinitrobenzene moiety, which allows for easy UV detection. Also utilized in peptide chemistry for protection and activation strategies. Requires careful handling due to its lachrymatory and moisture-sensitive nature.