NOVELTY - The electrolytic cell comprises a containment vessel (4), a first electrode, a second electrode, a source of electrical current in electrical communication with the first and second electrodes, an electrolyte in fluid communication with the first and second electrodes, a gas that is formed during electrolysis at or near the first electrode, and a separator (10). The first electrode comprises a topographical treatment to provide an increased surface area, and a topographical enhancement to control a location of nucleation of the gas by separating a location of electron transfer and nucleation.    USE - The electrolytic cell is useful for producing hydrogen and oxygen.    ADVANTAGE - The electrolytic cell is capable of effectively and economically producing hydrogen and oxygen with reduced energy.    DETAILED DESCRIPTION - The electrolytic cell comprises a containment vessel (4), a first electrode, a second electrode, a source of electrical current in electrical communication with the first and second electrodes, an electrolyte in fluid communication with the first and second electrodes, a gas that is formed during electrolysis at or near the first electrode, and a separator (10). The first electrode comprises a topographical treatment to provide an increased surface area, and a topographical enhancement to control a location of nucleation of the gas by separating a location of electron transfer and nucleation. The first electrode and the topographical enhancement comprise: a first conductive material proximal to the source of electrical current; a dielectric material distal to the source of electrical current to control the location of nucleation of the gas by separating the location of electron transfer and nucleation; and a second conductive material proximal to the dielectric material and distal to the source of electrical current. The dielectric material comprises filaments, and a doped semiconductor. The separator comprises a microorganism, and retains the microorganism in a desired location. The topographical treatment comprises sandblasting, knurling and electroplating with a catalytic nucleation agent. The topographical enhancement comprises filaments, a metal and the doped semiconductor, and increases a surface area of the first electrode.    DESCRIPTION OF DRAWING(S) - The diagram shows a schematic view of an electrolytic cell.    Containment vessel (4)    Electrical connection (6)    Porous electrode (8)    Separator (10)    Sensors. (50)