Used as an intermediate in organic synthesis, particularly in the preparation of functionalized heterocyclic compounds. It participates in cyclization reactions to form pyran and pyridine derivatives, which are important scaffolds in pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. Its active methylene and nitrile groups allow for nucleophilic addition and condensation reactions, making it valuable in the development of dyes, fluorescent materials, and nonlinear optical materials. Also employed in the synthesis of conjugated systems for use in organic electronics.