An equation is like a balance scale with two sides. We use it to show that two things are equal. For example, if we have an equation like 2 + 3 = 5, we're saying that 2 plus 3 is equal to 5. Equations can be true or false, depending on what the numbers are.
An identity is like a special kind of equation where both sides are always equal, no matter what numbers we use. It's like a balance scale that never tips over, no matter what we put on it. For example, the identity 2x = x + x is true no matter what number we use for x. We can see this by trying different numbers, like 2, 5, or 10.
So, the main difference between an equation and an identity is that an equation can be true or false, depending on what numbers we use, while an identity is always true, no matter what numbers we use.