There were three main reactions that led to the formation of elements: 1) Nucleosynthesis during the Big Bang formed the lightest elements hydrogen, helium, and lithium. 2) Nuclear fusion in stars formed heavier elements up to iron through processes like the proton-proton chain and triple alpha process. 3) Neutron capture reactions during supernovae formed elements heavier than iron, as they require more energy to form than can be provided by fusion. The temperature and density conditions of supernovae provided the right environment for these reactions.