Used primarily as an intermediate in organic synthesis, this compound serves in the preparation of more complex esters and amides through nucleophilic acyl substitution reactions. Its electron-withdrawing nitro groups enhance electrophilicity, making it particularly reactive toward amines and alcohols in coupling reactions. It is also employed in the study of reaction kinetics and mechanisms due to its distinct UV-Vis absorbance properties, especially in monitoring ester hydrolysis under various conditions. Additionally, it finds use in analytical chemistry as a derivatizing agent for detecting compounds with hydroxyl or amino functional groups.