Final answer:
The reaction C₂H₄ + 3O₂ → 2CO₂ + 2H₂O is a combustion reaction, involving a substance reacting with oxygen to produce carbon dioxide and water, along with the release of energy.
Step-by-step explanation:
The reaction C₂H₄ + 3O₂ → 2CO₂ + 2H₂O in the question would be classified as a combustion reaction. This is because it involves a substance (in this case, ethylene, C₂H₄) reacting with oxygen (O₂) to produce carbon dioxide (CO₂) and water (H₂O), releasing energy in the form of heat and/or light. Combustion reactions are characterized by the presence of oxygen as one of the reactants and commonly result in the formation of CO₂ and H₂O when a hydrocarbon is combusted.