Primarily used in organic synthesis as a reagent for the preparation of various chemical compounds. It serves as a precursor in the production of dyes, pigments, and other nitroaromatic derivatives. In analytical chemistry, it is employed as a standard or reference compound for calibrating instruments or validating methods. Additionally, it finds application in research laboratories for studying reaction mechanisms and developing new synthetic pathways. Its nitro groups make it useful in explosive-related studies, though it is not directly used as an explosive.