Which structures control breathing automatically?

The medulla oblongata and pons are the key structures in the brain that control breathing automatically. The medulla oblongata is directly responsible for regulating the basic rhythm of respiration. It contains centers that manage the involuntary actions of breathing, such as the pace and depth of breaths. Additionally, the pons plays a supportive role by modulating and fine-tuning the respiratory rhythm generated by the medulla. It helps in transitioning between inhalation and exhalation, ensuring that the breathing process is smooth and coordinated.

Understanding this regulation is crucial in contexts like anesthesia and emergency medicine, where maintaining appropriate ventilation is vital. The other choices include structures that either do not directly control breathing (like the cerebral cortex, which is more involved in voluntary control) or are not part of the central nervous system control for respiration (like the lungs and diaphragm, which are primarily involved in the mechanics of breathing).