Used as a key intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in the preparation of heterocyclic compounds. It serves in the development of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals due to its ability to form hydrazone derivatives. Also employed in the synthesis of sulfonamide-based bioactive molecules and as a derivatizing agent in analytical chemistry for detection of carbonyl compounds. Its nitro group allows for further reduction or substitution reactions, enhancing its utility in multi-step synthetic routes.