Mary,

I interpreted Paul's 'kinetics' comment geared more toward the fact that monohulls are heavier and have more kinetic energy while in motion. The monohull would be therefore less suceptible to tiny wind and water changes because it has more momentum to carry through waves as well as tacking. Whereas, on the other hand, catamarans are much lighter and do not have the same momentum - hence the sailors must be even more attentive and disciplined to adjust for the lack of mechanical energy. Mistakes are amplified on boats with less kinetic energy.

I know I didn't really answer your questions - but that's because I don't know. I know that ooching your rudders does accelerate the boat (and is illegal) but the only times I'm been in waves big enough that moving my weight might be an advantage, it is usually blowing 15 or better and we're more concerned about keeping the bows high!