Periodic acid is widely used in organic chemistry for the oxidative cleavage of vicinal diols, converting them into aldehydes or ketones. This reaction is particularly valuable in carbohydrate chemistry for determining the structure of sugars. It is also employed in histology as a staining agent to identify polysaccharides like glycogen in tissue samples. In material science, periodic acid is utilized to modify surfaces by oxidizing specific functional groups, enhancing adhesion properties. Additionally, it serves as a strong oxidizing agent in various synthetic processes, including the preparation of pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals. Its ability to selectively oxidize certain compounds makes it a versatile tool in both research and industrial applications.