Theoretical and experimental work was carried out in this investigation to study the effect of the electrode configuration of an electrochemical flotation cell on sulfide mineral flotation and the optimum configuration of the electrodes. The factors that may affect the efficiency of the externally applied potential were discussed. The results of this study illustrate that both the value of the potential and the distribution of electrical current in the pulp are crucial for effective control of mineral flotation. (C) 2003 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.