"Discuss the theoretical foundations governing mass and energy transfer phenomena in chemical engineering processes. Explore the principles of fluid mechanics, heat transfer, and mass transfer, and their interplay in designing efficient unit operations such as distillation, absorption$,$ and reaction kinetics. Investigate the mathematical models used to describe transport phenomena, including diffusion, convection, and reaction kinetics, and their application in reactor design and process optimization. Furthermore, analyze the thermodynamic principles underlying phase equilibria and separation processes, emphasizing their significance in industrial applications. Consider the role of computational tools and simulation techniques in predicting process behavior and optimizing performance. Provide examples illustrating the integration of theoretical concepts with practical applications to address challenges in chemical process engineering."