Disclosed is an electrolytic cell including means for holding a first electrode in position relative to a second electrode to form an inter-electrode zone of specified dimension for containing electrolyte, wherein the first electrode is held essentially free from support by the internal surfaces of the cell, said means for holding including means for supporting the first electrode from the second electrode; and conductive means for electrically connecting one electrode to a separate liquid pad of higher conductivity than the electrolyte.Also disclosed is a method of electrolysis including establishing a first electrode in relative position to a second electrode in an electrolytic cell to form an inter-electrode zone of specified dimension for containing an electrolyte; supporting the first electrode from the second electrode, wherein the first electrode is supported essentially free from support by internal cell surfaces; and connecting one electrode electrically with a separate liquid pad of higher conductivity than the electrolyte.