On the basis of density functional theory (DFT) methods, we study the magnetic properties and electronic structures of the adsorbed ZnO nanotube by various first-row atoms (H, Li, Be, B, C, N, O, and F). It is found that the eight atoms which have been studied can be effectively adsorbed by the ZnO nanotube with the adsorption energy ranging from 1.53 to 6.79 eV. Furthermore, the adsorption of Li, C, N, O, F atoms can induce magnetization, whereas no magnetism is observed when H, Be, and B atoms are absorbed on the ZnO nanotube. (C) 2012 Elsevier B. V. All rights reserved.