i broke what i think is the O2 sensor while removing the right-middle driver-side spark plug. It is supposed to go into the manifold collector thing but now theres a hole. i found the piece that goes into the hole and its got a thin wire to it...any ideas??

 

sounds like you broke the tip off.
It screws into the manifold.
you will need a large socket to remove and replace the sensor.
as far as I know they cannot be patched back together.

 

yeh i did snap it but what do i have to do now? Obviously get a new sensor but do i use the piece in the manifold now or does it come w/ one and does it matter what brand it is..can i get away w/ a cheap one or should i go w/ a Bosch??

 

I think a bosch one will cost about $25 at a local hardware store, its a 7/8 socket with a slit in the side for the wire to hang out. You need the whole thing and this socket or a wrench that size to tighten it, it is VERY hard to get a wrench in there. Just ask for an oxygen sensor socket, should be about $12.