Here's how it works in each context:
As an adjective: "Equal" describes something that is the same in quantity, size, value, or importance as something else.
Examples:
* Equal rights
* Equal opportunity
* Equal amounts of sugar and flour
* They are equal in height.
As a noun: "Equal" can refer to someone or something that is the same as another in terms of rights, status, or treatment.
Examples:
* Everyone is an equal.
* They are equals in the company.
As a verb: "Equal" means to be the same as something else in quantity, value, or importance.
Examples:
* The two teams equal each other in skill.
* Your effort equals your reward.
Adjectives that convey a similar meaning to "equal":
* Equivalent
* Identical
* Comparable
* Similar
* Alike
* Same
The best choice of adjective depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.