For a sperm cell to fertilize an ovum, sexual intercourse must occur no more than __________ hours before ovulation. 23:10 Biology Chapter 16 For a sperm cell to fertilize an ovum, sexual intercourse must occur no more than __________ hours before ovulation. A) 12 B) 24 C) 48 D) 72 E) 90 Answer: C Learn More : Share this Share on FacebookTweet on TwitterPlus on Google+