Play-Doh, unlike plastic wrap, is a modeling compound that's primarily composed of water, flour, salt, and other ingredients. If you leave Play-Doh in a container with bromothymol blue for four days, here's what might happen:
1. **Change in pH**: Play-Doh is typically slightly salty and can be slightly acidic. Depending on the initial pH of the bromothymol blue solution, the presence of Play-Doh might cause a color change in the solution over time, indicating a shift in pH.
2. **Absorption**: Play-Doh is relatively porous compared to many materials, so it might absorb some of the bromothymol blue solution, which could change the Play-Doh's color.
3. **Swelling or Softening**: Depending on the concentration and volume of the bromothymol blue solution, the Play-Doh might absorb the liquid and become softer or even swell. If the solution is water-based, the Play-Doh could become much softer and more malleable due to the added moisture.
4. **Physical Changes to Play-Doh**: Over time, especially if the Play-Doh is immersed in the solution, it could begin to break down, becoming mushy or even dissolving slightly.
5. **Contamination**: If the container and its contents aren't sterile, there's a chance for microbial growth over four days. Some microorganisms might find the Play-Doh a suitable medium for growth, especially given its organic ingredients. Their metabolic activities could further alter the pH and appearance of the solution.
6. **Evaporation**: If the container isn't sealed, the solvent in the bromothymol blue solution might evaporate, leading to a concentration of the solution. This could affect how much of the solution the Play-Doh absorbs.
As with any experiment, the actual results might vary based on specific conditions and variables involved. Observing and documenting any changes would be essential for understanding the interaction between Play-Doh and bromothymol blue over time.