What are the foundational theories in chemical engineering that form the bedrock of the discipline's understanding and application? How do principles like mass and energy conservation, thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and reaction kinetics serve as the theoretical underpinnings guiding the design and operation of chemical processes? Additionally, how do concepts such as material balances, energy balances, equilibrium theory, and transport phenomena contribute to the comprehensive framework of chemical engineering theory? How do these theories intersect and integrate to enable engineers to analyze, optimize, and innovate processes across various industries, ranging from petrochemicals to pharmaceuticals, ensuring efficiency, sustainability, and safety in industrial operations?