Association of specific organic matter compounds in size fractions of soils under different environmental controls

► Organic matter compound distribution in physical fractions of soils with similar mineralogy but varying carbon contents. ► Lignin-derived phenols were protected from oxidation in silt-size fractions. ► Polymethylene compounds and peptides accumulated in clay-size fractions. ► Organic acids > C20 accumulated in silt- and clay-size fractions. ► Chemical structure exerts stronger control than environment on accumulation of organic matter in minerals.