Final answer:
Leakage channels are responsible for maintaining the resting membrane potential in a neuron, by allowing the differential movement of potassium and sodium ions across the membrane.
Step-by-step explanation:
The channel type that is responsible for establishing and maintaining the resting membrane potential for a typical neuron is: a) leakage channels.
Neurons have a resting membrane potential that is typically around -70 millivolts (mV), which is maintained by the differential distribution of ions across the cell membrane and the selective permeability provided by ion channels. Potassium leakage channels are particularly important for setting the resting membrane potential because they are more numerous than sodium leakage channels, thereby allowing potassium (K+) to diffuse out of the cell more readily than sodium (Na+) leaks in. This efflux of K+ causes a net negative charge inside the neuron, contributing to the resting membrane potential. Additionally, the sodium-potassium pump plays a role in maintaining this potential by actively transporting K+ into and Na+ out of the neuron, utilizing ATP for energy.