Used as an intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in the preparation of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. It serves as a protecting group reagent for alcohols and phenols due to its stability under various reaction conditions and ease of removal when needed. Also employed in the synthesis of dyes and fragrances, where it acts as a building block for more complex aromatic compounds. Its nitro group allows for further functionalization through reduction to an amino group, enabling the production of substituted anilines used in dye and polymer industries.