Used as a key intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in the preparation of naphthoquinone derivatives and other polycyclic aromatic compounds. It serves in the development of dyes and fluorescent probes due to its extended conjugated system. Also employed in research for synthesizing biologically active molecules, including potential pharmaceutical agents with antimicrobial or anticancer properties. Its reactivity as an α,β-unsaturated ketone makes it valuable in Michael addition and cycloaddition reactions.