Applications
Glyoxylic acid is used in Hopkins Cole reaction, which is used in the detection of tryptophan in proteins. It reacts with phenol to get 4-hydroxymandelic acid, which on further reaction with ammonia gives hydroxyphenylglycine, as a precursor to the drug amoxicillin. It is also used as a starting material for the preparation of 4-hydroxyphenylacetic acid, which is used to get atenolol. It is involved in the production of agrochemicals, aromas, cosmetic ingredient and pharmaceutical intermediate. It is also used in water purification and in the preservation of food. Further, it is employed as precursor in the synthesis of iron chelates. In addition to this, it serves as an intermediate of varnish material and dyes.

Solubility
Miscible with ethanol. Slightly miscible with ether and benzene. Immiscible with esters.

Notes
Incompatible with metals, alkalies, strong oxidizing agents and strong bases.