Attempts have been made to initiate the Fleischmann-Pons phenomenon through selective perturbations during experimental studies in divided electrolytic cells. Despite wide variations in the operating parameters and the attainment of high loading (sometimes up to D/Pd ∼ 2), the phenomenon was not observed either during the unperturbed electrolysis or on physical perturbation. However, instances of its occurrence were observed when the state of equilibrium of the deuterated cathode (having a scale free portion) was chemically perturbed by oxygen. This observation, viewed in light of available information, is indicative of oxygen playing a vital role in the phenomenon.