Used as an intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in the preparation of radiolabeled compounds for medical imaging and pharmaceutical research. Its iodine functionality allows for easy incorporation of radioactive isotopes, making it valuable in the development of tracers for studying biological pathways. Also employed in the synthesis of specialty polymers and functionalized molecules where a protected alcohol with a terminal halogen is required. The acetate group offers stability during reactions and can be selectively deprotected to release the alcohol for further derivatization.