How does chemical engineering contribute to the design and optimization of industrial processes? Discuss key concepts such as mass and energy balances, reaction kinetics, and separation techniques, elucidating their significance in engineering design and problem$-$solving. Explore the application of chemical engineering principles in various industries, including petrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, and food processing, highlighting the role of process optimization in maximizing efficiency and product quality. Additionally, analyze the importance of safety and environmental considerations in chemical engineering practice, emphasizing sustainable and responsible process design. Provide examples to illustrate the practical application of these principles in real$-$world engineering scenarios.