Used as an intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in the preparation of pharmaceutical compounds. Its structure allows for selective functionalization, making it valuable in constructing complex molecules. The presence of the tosylate group enhances reactivity in substitution reactions, while the protected alcohol (benzyloxy) can be deprotected under mild conditions to reveal a hydroxyl group for further modification. Commonly employed in the development of bioactive molecules and drug candidates where cyclobutane scaffolds are required.