As atoms become larger, there are more electrons which can move around and set up the temporary dipoles which create intermolecular attractions. Since iodine atoms are large (they contain a large number of electrons), they are more polarizable and therefore have stronger intermolecular forces (London dispersion forces) between iodine molecules. The stronger intermolecular attractions, as the molecules become larger, means that you have to supply more heat energy to turn them into either a liquid or a gas - and so their melting and boiling points rise. The intermolecular forces between iodine atoms/iodine molecules (I2) is great enough to keep it solid at room temp. Solution As atoms become larger, there are more electrons which can move around and set up the temporary dipoles which create intermolecular attractions. Since iodine atoms are large (they contain a large number of electrons), they are more polarizable and therefore have stronger intermolecular forces (London dispersion forces) between iodine molecules. The stronger intermolecular attractions, as the molecules become larger, means that you have to supply more heat energy to turn them into either a liquid or a gas - and so their melting and boiling points rise. The intermolecular forces between iodine atoms/iodine molecules (I2) is great enough to keep it solid at room temp..