Cracking, saponification and polymerization are all terminologies associated with the petroleum industry but fermentation is associated with the brewery industry.

Cracking is a chemical process that breaks down heavy hydrocarbon molecules into lighter, more useful ones.

Saponification is a chemical reaction that converts fats and oils into soap. It's not directly involved in petroleum, but it can be used to analyze petroleum products.

Polymerization is a process in the petroleum industry that converts light olefin gases into higher molecular weight hydrocarbons.

Fermentation is the process in which a substance breaks down into a simpler substance. Microorganisms like yeast and bacteria usually play a role in the fermentation process, creating beer, wine, bread,yogurt and other foods.