The phototransformation of bulk C-60 and laser- and electron-beam treatment of C-60 films in air changes their magnetic properties. Nonlinear magnetization is observed only for samples irradiated in the presence of oxygen, while, in the case of pressure-polymerized C-60, oxygen adversely affects the magnetic properties. The contrasting roles of oxygen in these processes are discussed. Magnetic force microscopy shows that laser- and electron-beam irradiation of fullerene films produces magnetic images which are highly correlated with the topographic images. (C) 2003 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.41815751584