Which respiratory group controls voluntary forced exhalation?

The ventral respiratory group is responsible for voluntary forced exhalation due to its role in regulating the rhythm of breathing and integrating the motor commands necessary for forced expiratory movements. This group generates signals that stimulate the muscles involved in expiration, particularly when there is a need for increased respiratory effort, such as during exercise or when speaking.

The ventral respiratory group includes neurons that activate the abdominal and internal intercostal muscles, which contribute to active and forced expiration. This is crucial during activities requiring more vigorous breathing patterns, demonstrating its importance in the overall control of respiratory functions.

In contrast, the dorsal respiratory group primarily coordinates involuntary, rhythmic breathing patterns without engaging in voluntary control, and the apneustic center mainly prolongs inspiration by promoting deep breathing but does not directly manage forced exhalation. Chemoreceptors are involved in monitoring levels of carbon dioxide, oxygen, and pH to inform respiratory rate but do not control the physical act of breathing itself.