Question

Ventilation of mammalian lungs is regulated by respiratory centers in the , which sends signals to the μscles that control expansion and relaxation of the lungs.

a) Brainstem
b) Spinal cord
c) Cerebellum
d) Hypothalaμs

Answer 1

The brainstem, including the medulla oblongata and the pontine respiratory group, regulates mammalian lung ventilation. The dorsal respiratory group manages quiet breathing, while the ventral respiratory group handles forced breathing.

Step-by-step explanation:

Ventilation of mammalian lungs is regulated by respiratory centers in the brainstem, which sends signals to the muscles controlling the expansion and relaxation of the lungs. These centers include the medulla oblongata, containing the dorsal respiratory group (DRG) and the ventral respiratory group (VRG), and the pontine respiratory group. The DRG is primarily responsible for the rhythmic, consistent ventilation rate during quiet breathing, while the VRG becomes active during forced breathing. Moreover, the pneumotaxic center located in the pons plays a role in inhibiting the activity of the DRG to control the rate of breathing.