Question

Which part of the human brain controls the breathing movements?
A. Cerebellum
B. Medulla oblongata
C. Cerebrum
D. Diencephalon.

Answer 1

Hint: Lower half of brainstem controls or regulates functioning of ANS (autonomic nervous system) such as vasodilation, cardiac function, respiration and reflexes including coughing, vomiting, swallowing or sneezing. Breathing is a rhythmic act that is automatically produced by networks of the nerve cells present in the hindbrain.

Complete answer:
During the breathing process, carbon dioxide is exhaled by an individual into the outer environment while oxygen is inhaled from air (outer environment) at the same time simultaneously. The breathing movements (taking in oxygen and taking out carbon dioxide) are initiated in response to the ratio of carbon dioxide and oxygen within the body. All metabolic activities of the majority of the body cells and tissues require oxygen. However, carbon dioxide is produced during those metabolic activities as a waste product of the biochemical reactions. Hence, high levels of carbon dioxide and low levels of oxygen would collectively influence the body to exhale carbon dioxide and take in oxygen. This is usually regulated by a part of the hindbrain called medulla oblongata.
In response to carbon dioxide and oxygen ratio, medulla oblongata signals the heart and diaphragm accordingly to facilitate respiration. This is mainly because medulla oblongata contains vomiting, respiratory, cardiac, and vasomotor centers. The respiratory center of medulla oblongata is concerned with controlling the depth and rate of respiration.The correct answer is option B, stating medulla oblongata.

So, the correct answer is option B.

Note:
Brain is a vital organ in humans as it performs and regulates different processes that are essential for survival of an organism. It is divided into three parts including forebrain, midbrain and hindbrain. The hindbrain or brainstem comprises different parts, namely pons and medulla oblongata, concerned with controlling or regulating other important bodily processes.