The application of backscattering of beta-radiation emitted outside an electrochemical cell to the investigation of the formation and dissolution of thin layers electrochemical cells is discussed. The backscattering of the radiation emitted by 99Tc, Cl-36 and Tl-204 external radiation sources was followed in during the formation of Cu, Ag and Bi layers on Au. Simultaneous changes in the energy spectra of the radiations are also demonstrated. It was shown that the method can be used to study the anodic dissolution of metal layers.