What is the shortest distance from the mainland of north america to the mainland of asia?

The distance between the easternmost tip of the continent of Asia and the westernmost point of the North American continent is approximately 51 miles (82 kilometers). Thus, the shortest distance from the mainland of North America to the mainland of Asia is 51 miles.

Explanation:

The continents of Asia and North America are separated by a narrow strait called the Bering Strait in the north Pacific Ocean. This strait is just 51 miles (82 kilometers) wide and serves as the pass between the Pacific and the Arctic Oceans. The distance of 51 miles between the easternmost point on mainland Asia, Cape Dezhnev and the westernmost point of North America, Cape Prince of Wales can thus be viewed as the 'shortest distance' between mainland Asia and mainland North America.