Used primarily as a reagent in organic synthesis, particularly in the preparation of pyridine derivatives and heterocyclic compounds. It serves as a nitrosating agent in the modification of amines and other nitrogen-containing substrates. Also employed in coordination chemistry as a ligand for transition metal complexes, where it can participate in redox reactions. Its reactivity makes it useful in the development of dyes, pharmaceuticals, and agrochemicals. Due to its instability, it is often generated in situ for specific synthetic transformations.