Final answer:
The respiratory centers of the brain are located in the medulla oblongata and the pons of the brain stem. The medulla contains the dorsal and ventral respiratory groups that regulate breathing, while the pons contains centers that adjust the depth and rate of breaths.
Step-by-step explanation:
The respiratory centers of the brain are primarily located in the medulla oblongata and the pons, within the brain stem. The medulla contains the dorsal respiratory group (DRG) and the ventral respiratory group (VRG). The DRG's main function is to maintain a constant breathing rhythm, stimulating the diaphragm and intercostal muscles for inspiration and allowing them to relax for expiration. The VRG controls enforced breathing by stimulating accessory muscles during forced inspiration and expiration. Additionally, the pontine respiratory group in the pons, which includes the apneustic and pneumotaxic centers, regulates the depth and rate of breathing.
The medulla is the correct answer to the question regarding the location of the respiratory centers, which means option b) Medulla is the correct choice.