Fractionating column is a term used to describe a process in oil refining. The column works by separating different hydrocarbons based on their boiling points, allowing for the production of different products like gasoline and diesel. Synonyms for fractionating column include rectification column, distillation column, and fractionator. All of these terms describe the same process of separating hydrocarbons based on boiling points. Understanding the terminology used in oil refining is important in order to communicate effectively in the industry and understand the processes involved in the production of various petroleum products.