A student constructs a galvanic cell under standard conditions, as shown in the diagram. One half-cell consists of a \( \text{Zn(s)} \) strip immersed in \( 1.0\text{ M Zn(NO}_3)_2\text{(aq)} \). The other half-cell consists of a solid graphite rod immersed in an aqueous solution containing \( 1.0\text{ M Fe(NO}_3)_3\text{(aq)} \) and \( 1.0\text{ M Fe(NO}_3)_2\text{(aq)} \). The relevant standard reduction potentials are given below.

\[ \text{Fe}^{3+}\text{(aq)} + \text{e}^- \rightarrow \text{Fe}^{2+}\text{(aq)} \quad E^\circ = +0.77\text{ V} \]
\[ \text{Zn}^{2+}\text{(aq)} + 2\text{e}^- \rightarrow \text{Zn(s)} \quad E^\circ = -0.76\text{ V} \]

After current is allowed to flow through the circuit for \( 10\text{ minutes} \), both electrodes are removed, rinsed with distilled water, dried, and weighed. Which of the following statements best explains why the mass of the graphite electrode does not change as the cell operates?