How does supernova change the universe?

The fusion that has been combining hydrogen atoms to create helium atoms starts creating ever heavier elements as stars get closer to the end of their lives.

Our star is only large enough to create oxygen at periodic number 8, but as a star enters its later stages, rising heat and gravity start creating elements like lithium, carbon, and oxygen.

When you think about the density of elements like silver, gold, lead, and platinum, you realize that it takes a tremendous amount of heat and gravity to create the heaviest of elements. Remember, every time you touch a piece of gold or silver, that element only exists because a star underwent a super nova stage. Only very large stars that undergo a super nova stage, however, will create every element in the natural periodic table.

In addition to releasing massive amounts of energy and radiation that impact the dynamics and evolution of galaxies, supernovae are also responsible for the synthesis and dissemination of elements heavier than iron through nucleosynthesis processes, enriching the interstellar medium and adding to the diversity of cosmic chemistry. Supernovae alter the universe by dispersing heavy elements, like iron and gold, into space, which are essential for the formation of planets and life.