What area of the brain is involved in controlling the rate of breathing?

The area of the brain primarily responsible for regulating the rate of breathing is the medulla oblongata. This structure is essential in maintaining the automatic control of respiration. It contains the respiratory centers that send signals to the diaphragm and other muscles involved in breathing. The medulla oblongata works closely with the pons to adjust the rhythm and depth of breathing in response to various physiological needs, such as exercise or stress.

While the pons and some areas, such as the pneumotaxic area, play roles in modulating the breathing pattern, they do so under the influence of the medulla. The frontal lobe, although it can contribute through voluntary control of breathing (for instance, when holding one's breath), is not involved in the automatic control of respiration. The primary role in control rests firmly with the medulla oblongata, which continuously monitors and adjusts the respiratory rate to maintain homeostasis.