Like most Lightning spells, it can be used to set off Lightning Runes from a safe distance.
Has greater range than the other novice level Destruction spells, Flames and Frostbite, and also being instant-effect it's harder to dodge, though the higher casting cost may be a problem for beginning mages.
It is useful for its ability to disintegrate wounded enemies at a low magicka cost once the disintegration perk has been unlocked.