Used as a catalyst in organic synthesis, particularly in Friedel-Crafts alkylation and acylation reactions due to its strong Lewis acidity. Also employed in the preparation of other zinc-based compounds and as an oxidizing agent in laboratory settings. Its hygroscopic nature makes it useful in moisture-sensitive reactions where controlled water content is required. Additionally, it finds application in electrochemical studies and as a reagent in analytical chemistry for qualitative analysis of certain anions.