by, with, or by means of
2. Current can be varied in a circuit __with__ a rheostat.
3. Earthquakes are usually caused __by__ the movement of the continental plates.
4. The age of the sample was determined __by means of__ the carbon 14 dating method.
5. Steel surfaces can be protected __with___ a thin coating of machine oil.
6. The colours of aurora borealis are generated _by__ the effect of solar particles on the various atmospheric gases.
7. The primitive cooling earth was darkened for centuries __by___ hot, dense clouds.
8. The direction of growth of a plant is controlled __by___ light (phototropism).
9. The body temperature of a higher mammal is regulated __by__ the hypothalamus.