Why do plastic water bottles start to smell bad when left for a prolonged period after being opened?
2 Main things: 1 standing water breeds bacteria, so water left to sit will get nasty no matter what it is in. 2. cheap plastic bottles will leach plastic into them over time (and quicker if its warm).
The Short Answer
2 Main things: 1 standing water breeds bacteria, so water left to sit will get nasty no matter what it is in. 2. cheap plastic bottles will leach plastic into them over time (and quicker if its warm). This is why all those bottles have small print saying not to reuse them. Its not too bad if its a day or 2, but you probably shouldn't reuse a bottle for more than a week (if that).
Analysis
Key Concepts: Water, plastic, bottles
This explanation focuses on water, plastic, bottles and spans 72 words across 5 sentences. The depth is typical for Space & Astronomy questions (category average: 68 words), striking a balance between accessibility and completeness.
What This Answer Covers
The explanation opens with: “2 Main things: 1 standing water breeds bacteria, so water left to sit will get nasty no matter what it is in.” It then elaborates by presenting a contrasting perspective, ultimately building toward a complete picture across 5 connected points.
How This Compares in Space & Astronomy
Ranked #195 of 500 Space & Astronomy questions by answer depth (top 40%). This falls in the detailed tier — above average depth. The explanation goes beyond surface-level but keeps things accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a simple explanation for why plastic water bottles start to smell bad when left for a prolonged period after being opened?
2 Main things: 1 standing water breeds bacteria, so water left to sit will get nasty no matter what it is in. 2. cheap plastic bottles will leach plastic into them over time (and quicker if its warm). This is why all those bottles have small print…
How detailed is this explanation compared to similar Space & Astronomy questions?
This is an above-average answer at 72 words, ranked #195 of 500 Space & Astronomy questions by depth. The key concepts covered are water, plastic, bottles.
What approach does this answer take to explain plastic water bottles start to smell bad when left for a pro?
The explanation uses contrasting perspectives across 72 words. It is categorized under Space & Astronomy and addresses the question through 1 analytical lens.