Question
I need to repot my plant.  The one i have is in the middle of what looks like a wood.  It is light weight.  I believe one of my roots is rotten and dead,  Should i break it open and replant it?

Answer
Sarah, I'll assume you have a phalaenopsis orchid. Yes you should repot.  You need to locate a source for orchid potting mix and purchase a small bag.  It will consist principally of fir bark, perlite and charcoal.  Remove a portion of the orchid potting mix and soak it in water.  Then unpot your plant, discard the old potting mix and rinse the old potting mix from the plant's roots.  Any mushy or collapsed roots should be removed as they are dead or dying.  Repot the plant in a plastic pot with lots of drainage holes. Use a pot size that is large enough for the roots but not any larger.  Repot using the fresh, wet potting mix and set the pot aside where the excess water can drain out.  Water it weekly. East window is the preferred growing spot for a phalaenopsis.

If you have a less common type of orchid, somewhat different advice may be required.