Used as a key intermediate in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals, particularly in the development of antiviral and anticancer agents. Its structure allows for selective functionalization, making it valuable in constructing pyrimidine-based drug candidates. It is also employed in agrochemicals for creating herbicides and pesticides due to its reactivity and ability to form stable derivatives. Commonly utilized in research laboratories for building blocks in heterocyclic chemistry and in the preparation of nucleoside analogs.