Step 1: Key idea.
Thyroxine (T\textsubscript{4}) and triiodothyronine (T\textsubscript{3}) are iodinated hormones of the thyroid gland.
Step 2: Application.
Iodine deficiency leads to reduced thyroxine, causing goitre and cretinism.
Step 3: Conclusion.
Hence iodine is essential for thyroxine synthesis.