Final answer:
The B. medulla oblongata is the component of the brain responsible for controlling the respiratory system, housing critical neuronal groups like the DRG and VRG that maintain regular and forced breathing.
Step-by-step explanation:
The portion of the brain that is responsible for neural control of the respiratory system is the medulla oblongata. Neurons within the medulla oblongata innervate the muscles of the respiratory system, controlling and regulating pulmonary ventilation. This region of the brain is home to the dorsal respiratory group (DRG) and the ventral respiratory group (VRG), which together regulate both involuntary breathing and forced breathing when necessary. The DRG maintains a constant breathing rhythm, while the VRG is activated during forced breathing to stimulate the accessory muscles needed for that activity.