Question

The respiratory centre of the brain is located in
A. Medulla-oblongata
B. Pons
C. Cerebellum
D. Both A and B.

Answer 1

Hint: Two major structures that are located in the lower half and upper part of the brain stem controls the rhythmic breathing. They are known as the respiratory centres of the brain. They are involved in minute-to-minute control of breathing.

Complete answer: In the brain stem, the respiratory centres generate a rhythmic pattern of breathing. The primary respiratory centre contains two lobes of neuronal cell bodies namely ventral and dorsal respiratory groups. The medullary respiratory centres serve to provide the output for the respiratory muscles. In the pons region of the brain stem, pontine respiratory centres are present which are namely pneumotaxic centres and apneustic centres. The pontine respiratory centres modify the output given by the medullary centres. Voluntary movements of the skeletal system, balance, posture and equilibrium is coordinated by the cerebellum. The uppermost and the largest region of the brain is known as the cerebrum. It controls higher thought processes such as learning, memory, speech, and language. It is also known as the largest brain. All these structures are a part of the central nervous system.
Hence, the correct answer is option D.

Note: The medullary respiratory rhythm generators produce respiratory activities and these activities are modulated by various sites in the brain stem. The medulla region sends signals to the muscles and helps in initiating inspiration and expiration. It controls non-respiratory air movement reflexes such as coughing and sneezing. The pons region interacts with motor control, cerebellum, and respiration.