Used primarily as a fluorescent derivatization reagent for the detection of nitrite and other reactive nitrogen species in environmental and biological samples. When reacted with nitrite under acidic conditions, it forms a highly fluorescent compound, 2,3-naphthotriazole, allowing sensitive quantification using fluorometry. This reaction is widely applied in water quality testing and biochemical assays. Also employed in the synthesis of dyes and fluorescent probes due to its strong emission properties after derivatization. Additionally, it serves as a precursor in the preparation of certain polymers and heterocyclic compounds used in material science and pharmaceutical research.