Final answer:
The respiratory control centers are located in the medulla oblongata and the pons of the brainstem, which are responsible for controlling involuntary respiration.
Step-by-step explanation:
Respiratory control centers that govern involuntary control over breathing muscles are located in specific areas of the brainstem. More precisely, these centers are found within the medulla oblongata and the pons. The medulla houses the dorsal respiratory group (DRG) and the ventral respiratory group (VRG). The DRG is crucial for maintaining a regular breathing rhythm, stimulating the diaphragm and intercostal muscles for inspiration, and allowing them to relax for expiration. The ventral respiratory group is involved during forced respiration.
In addition to the medulla, the pons contains the pontine respiratory group, which includes the apneustic and pneumotaxic centers. These centers regulate the depth of inspiration and the overall respiratory rate. Therefore, the answer to the student's question is B. medulla and pons.