Final answer:
The part of the brain that exerts the most control over autonomic functioning is the medulla oblongata. It works in conjunction with the hypothalamus to regulate vital bodily functions such as heart rate and breathing.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Part of the Brain Controlling Autonomic Functioning
The part of the brain that exerts more control over autonomic functioning than any other part is the medulla oblongata. Autonomic control is deeply intertwined with various forebrain structures, particularly the hypothalamus, which is considered the master control center for homeostasis through the autonomic and endocrine systems. The medulla oblongata, part of the brainstem, works closely with the hypothalamus to regulate many vital functions such as heart rate, breathing, and blood pressure.
While the cerebellum is responsible for coordinating movement and the frontal lobe is associated with advanced cognitive functions, neither is the primary regulator of autonomic functions. Similarly, the hippocampus is involved in memory formation but not in the direct regulation of the autonomic nervous system. Thus, the correct answer to the question is b) Medulla Oblongata.