Step 1: Understand the enthalpy change of the reaction
The given enthalpy change for the reaction \( \text{C} + \text{O}_2 \rightarrow \text{CO}_2 \) is \( -393.5 \, \text{kJ/mol} \), meaning that for each mole of carbon reacting with oxygen, \( 393.5 \, \text{kJ} \) of heat is released.
Step 2: Calculate the heat released for 2 moles of carbon
For 2 moles of carbon, the total heat released will be:
\[
\text{Heat released} = 2 \times (-393.5 \, \text{kJ/mol}) = -787 \, \text{kJ}
\]
Answer: Therefore, the heat released when 2 moles of carbon react with excess oxygen is \( -787 \, \text{kJ} \). So, the correct answer is option (2).