Question

why are heavier elements not created by thermonuclear fusion in the cores of stars? why are heavier elements not created by thermonuclear fusion in the cores of stars? @Physics

Answer 1

I think it has to do something with the binding energy of the elements. A star can create elements up to iron, which has the highest binding energy. But, it could be also because the density of the core increases, thus the gravitational force wins, which pushes downwards, over fusion, which pushes upwards, resulting a supernova or what ever else you may want to call it.