How do chemical engineers apply principles of thermodynamics in process design? Explore the fundamental concepts of thermodynamics, such as energy conservation, entropy, and equilibrium, in chemical engineering applications. Explain how thermodynamic laws govern the behavior of chemical systems and influence processes like distillation, reaction kinetics, and phase equilibria. Discuss the significance of thermodynamic principles in optimizing process efficiency, minimizing energy consumption, and ensuring product quality in industries such as petroleum refining, pharmaceuticals, and food processing. Illustrate practical examples of thermodynamic analyses and their impact on engineering solutions, highlighting the interdisciplinary nature of chemical engineering.