Which part of the brain acts as the command center between both hemispheres?

The thalamus functions as the command center between both hemispheres of the brain. It plays a crucial role in relaying sensory and motor signals to the cerebral cortex and is involved in the regulation of consciousness, sleep, and alertness. Positioned centrally, the thalamus acts as a hub that integrates information received from various sources before transmitting it to the appropriate areas in both the left and right hemispheres.

In contrast, the cerebellum is primarily responsible for coordinating voluntary movements and maintaining balance, rather than serving as a communication center between hemispheres. The pons facilitates communication between different parts of the brain, mainly serving as a pathway for signals but not as a central integrative command center. The medulla oblongata regulates vital autonomic functions like breathing and heart rate and does not play a role in the interhemispheric communication that the thalamus facilitates. Thus, the thalamus is the key structure that connects and integrates functions across both hemispheres.