IET Hydrogen Resources

Making Hydrogen Experiment

This teaching resource guides students through a hands-on chemistry experiment to make hydrogen gas, helping them explore how this alternative fuel can be produced safely in the classroom. The activity shows learners how a simple reaction—in this case between magnesium and dilute hydrochloric acid—releases hydrogen, which inflates a balloon and can even float because it’s lighter than air. Beyond just the practical steps, the resource places hydrogen in the context of sustainable energy and engineering, encouraging pupils to think about how hydrogen is extracted and why engineers are researching it as a future power source for vehicles and cities. Designed for ages 11–14, the activity also links to broader discussions on hydrogen fuel cells and their potential benefits and challenges.

Access the Activity Overview here.

Access the Hydrogen Fuel Cell Resource Sheet here.

Access the Making Hydrogen Practical Instruction Sheet here.

Hydrogen Power

This Hydrogen power teaching resource from the IET introduces students aged 11–14 to the exciting world of hydrogen as a potential clean energy source. It explores how hydrogen can be made from water and used as an alternative to petrol and diesel, producing only water as a by-product and helping tackle pollution and sustainability challenges. Through a hands-on activity linked to the theme of future flight, learners discuss the limitations of oil-based fuels, experiment with producing hydrogen, and investigate ways to improve its production and use. The activity supports understanding of renewable energy in a transport context and can be used within broader lessons on sustainability, power supplies, and environmental issues. All teaching materials, including editable activity sheets and curriculum links, are free to download and adapt for your classroom.

Access the Activity Overview here.

Access the Presentation here.