In a simplified mechanics model, a sled begins with a fixed amount of kinetic energy and is brought to rest solely by friction. Reducing the frictional force may seem to mean that friction removes less energy before the sled stops. But the sled must still lose all of its initial kinetic energy to come to rest. ______ the weaker force acts over a greater stopping distance, so the total work done by friction is unchanged.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?