Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of fluorescent dyes and sensors due to its strong electron-donating group and ability to form Schiff bases. Commonly employed in the development of colorimetric and fluorometric probes for metal ions, especially zinc and aluminum. Its structural features make it suitable for nonlinear optical materials and in the design of photochromic compounds. Also utilized in organic synthesis for building more complex aldehyde-functionalized molecules in pharmaceutical and agrochemical research.