The respiratory center is divided into 3 main groups, the dorsal respiratory group and the ventral respiratory group, both located in the <u>medulla</u>, and the pontine respiratory group, located in the <u>pons</u>. This last one also divides into two areas: <em>the pneumotaxic and the apneustic center.</em>
During quiet, restful breathing, the dorsal group stimulates the diaphragm and the intercostal muscles for inspiration. Expiration then occurs depending on the elastic recoil of the lungs. When forced expiration is required, the ventral group activates.
The placenta is an organ that develops in your uterus during pregnancy. This structure provides oxygen and nutrients to your growing baby and removes waste products from your baby's blood.
